NIA Launches Probe into Killing of Pahalgam Attack Mastermind in Srinagar Encounter
The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has initiated a formal investigation following the killing of Suleiman Shah (also known as Hashim Musa), believed to be the mastermind behind the April 22, 2025, Pahalgam terror attack, in a joint security forces encounter near Srinagar. The encounter, part of the meticulously planned Operation Mahadev, resulted in the death of Suleiman Shah along with two other Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists on July 28, 2025.
Background of the Encounter
Suleiman Shah was a former Pakistan Army Special Service Group (SSG) commando who later became a key operative for Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
He was identified as the main shooter responsible for the Pahalgam massacre, in which 26 civilians, mostly tourists, were killed in Baisaran Valley.
Operation Mahadev was launched based on intelligence intercepts, including monitoring a Huawei satellite phone linked to the terrorists over 14 days.
The encounter took place in the forests near Dachigam National Park in Srinagar on July 28, involving the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
Authorities recovered a large cache of weapons and explosives during the operation.
Significance of the NIA Probe
The NIA’s probe aims to examine the details of the encounter, including the intelligence inputs, operational tactics, and verification of identities of the terrorists involved.
The agency will also scrutinize communications and electronic devices recovered from the killed militants to uncover wider terrorist networks and potential support mechanisms.
The investigation is crucial for building a strong case regarding cross-border terrorism and for legitimizing counter-terror operations legally and globally.
This investigation complements India’s broader efforts to hold terrorist organizations and their state sponsors accountable internationally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Suleiman Shah?
Suleiman Shah, also known as Hashim Musa, was a former elite Pakistan Army commando turned Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist, identified as the mastermind of the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025.
What was Operation Mahadev?
Operation Mahadev was a coordinated security operation launched in late July 2025 by Indian security forces to hunt and eliminate the terrorists involved in the Pahalgam attack, culminating in the encounter near Srinagar.
Why has the NIA launched a probe?
The NIA is investigating to gather evidence, verify identities, analyze recovered materials, and ensure the legality and transparency of the encounter and counter-terror operations.
How does this encounter impact the fight against terrorism?
Neutralizing top terrorists like Suleiman Shah disrupts terrorist networks, deters future attacks, and strengthens India’s counter-terror capabilities and diplomatic stance against terrorism.
Were other terrorists killed alongside Suleiman Shah?
Yes, two other Pakistani nationals affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba, Abu Hamza and Yasir, were also killed in the encounter.
What is the status of the NIA investigation?
The investigation is ongoing, with the NIA collecting intelligence, conducting forensic analysis of devices, and coordinating with other security agencies to build comprehensive cases against terror elements.
Published on: July 29, 2025
Published by: PAVAN
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