J&K SIA Arrests ‘Kingpin’ of Narco-Terror Module at Mumbai Airport

In a major crackdown on narco-terrorism, the Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) State Investigation Agency (SIA) arrested the alleged mastermind of a narco-terror module at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport. The arrest, made late Tuesday, marks a significant breakthrough in dismantling a network accused of smuggling drugs and funneling terror funds into Kashmir.

Key Details of the Arrest

The accused, Riyaz Ahmed Bhat (35), a resident of Srinagar, was intercepted upon arrival from an international flight. Intelligence sources confirm Bhat had been under surveillance for months due to suspected links with cross-border narcotics trafficking and terror financing.

According to the SIA, Bhat allegedly led a syndicate smuggling heroin and synthetic drugs from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) into J&K. Profits from drug sales reportedly funded terrorist activities in the region.

Narco-Terrorism: A Rising Threat in J&K

This arrest highlights the growing narco-terror nexus in J&K, where militant groups exploit drug trafficking to finance operations. Investigations reveal Bhat’s network had deep ties with Pakistan-based handlers and local overground workers (OGWs).

“Narco-terrorism destroys youth through addiction while fueling terrorism financially. This arrest is a critical step in cutting off this dangerous link,” said a senior SIA official.

How the Narco-Terror Network Operated

Interrogations uncovered sophisticated smuggling techniques:
– Cross-Border Drug Smuggling: Via drones and couriers along the Line of Control (LoC).
– Hawala Financing: Drug profits laundered through hawala channels to militant groups.
– Urban Transit Hubs: Mumbai and Delhi used as distribution points before reaching Kashmir.

The SIA has seized encrypted chats, financial records, and other digital evidence to identify more operatives.

Security and Political Reactions

The arrest comes amid increased counter-terror operations in J&K. Earlier this year, the NIA busted similar modules, exposing cross-border narcotics-terror links.

Security experts warn that Pakistan-based groups increasingly rely on drug money due to its untraceable nature compared to traditional hawala.

Political leaders reacted strongly:
– Mehbooba Mufti (Ex-CM, J&K): Demanded stricter border surveillance.
– Altaf Thakur (BJP): Praised the SIA, calling it a “major win against terror.”

Next Steps in the Investigation

Bhat will be transferred to Srinagar for further interrogation. The SIA expects more arrests as the probe expands. Meanwhile, airport and border surveillance has been intensified.

Conclusion

The arrest of Riyaz Ahmed Bhat deals a major blow to narco-terrorism in J&K. However, experts stress the need for continued intelligence efforts and global cooperation to fully dismantle such networks.

Stay updated with the latest developments on this case.

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