J&K Police bust LeT-linked OGW network in Rajouri, recover IED

JAMMU, Sept 15: Jammu and Kashmir Police have busted an Over Ground Worker (OGW) network allegedly linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) in Rajouri and arrested three persons, while an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was recovered during the investigation, officials said on Tuesday.

The arrested persons have been identified as Zakir Hussain of Kotcharwal Teryath, Mohd Azam of Kotcharwal, Teryath, and Mohd Mushtaq of Udhan, all in Rajouri district.

Officials said the arrests were made during an investigation into a terror module operating in the Rajouri-Poonch belt. Preliminary investigation has revealed that the accused allegedly provided logistical support, safe transit and other ground-level assistance to terrorists.

The accused allegedly also acted as guides and facilitated the movement of terrorist groups towards the Kashmir Valley, officials said.

The arrested OGWs were further suspected of providing ground support to terrorists linked to several high-profile attacks, including an attack targeting civilians.

During the investigation, an IED was recovered based on the disclosure of one of the accused. Preliminary findings suggest that the device had allegedly been handed over to the accused by members of a terrorist group for safe custody and possible use in a targeted attack.

Police said the investigation is underway to establish the full network and ascertain the role of other individuals, if any. (Agencies)