Suspect reveals Afghanistan mastermind behind terror plot

On March 19, 2025, authorities in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) successfully foiled a major terror plot by apprehending a militant in a suspicious vehicle near Azad Pattan. The police seized several dangerous items including a hand grenade, a 9mm pistol with ammunition, extremist literature, and other supplies. The suspect, who resides in Islamabad but was living in Soon Topa, Rawalakot, disclosed that he was part of a larger network led by Dr Abdul Rauf, an extremist operative located in Afghanistan, who masterminded the operation. This suspect's arrest led to the identification of five other operatives who were still at large after infiltrating AJK from Islamabad to carry out terror activities. Superintendent of Police Nadeem Arif confirmed that the arrested individual was in contact with Dr Rauf via the Telegram app, who was coordinating plans for terrorist activities. The suspect confessed that he and a group of operatives were guided to execute their mission which aimed at instilling fear in the local population and disrupting the region's peace. Authorities have evidence substantiating Dr Abdul Rauf's role in organizing terrorism, receiving support from terrorist factions based in Afghanistan. In another troubling aspect of this incident, police linked this group to the assassination of police constable Sajjad Resham, which took place on October 27, 2024, in Shujaabad, Bagh. This indicates a growing trend of violence and terror inspired by operatives connected to the Afghan territory. The police are actively searching for the remaining fugitives and have urged the public to be vigilant, reporting any suspicious activities or individuals that might compromise safety in AJK. This incident emphasizes the increasing threats posed by cross-border terrorism and highlights the importance of community involvement in countering extremism within the region. Authorities have pledged to dismantle the terror network and protect the safety and peace of AJK.