Baisaran Tragedy Captured on Camera: Local Videographer Becomes NIA's Key to Cracking Pahalgam Attack

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has identified a local videographer, who filmed reels for tourists in Baisaran, as a crucial witness in the investigation of the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack. The videographer's footage is expected to provide critical leads in identifying the perpetrators and their network. Here's a detailed overview:

 

Key Highlights

 

The Videographer's Role:

 

The local photographer captured the entire attack while perched on a tree to escape gunfire.

 

His footage is being analyzed by the NIA to identify the terrorists and possible overground workers (OGWs).

 

Sequence of Events:

 

Four terrorists divided into two groups and fired from opposite sides of the meadow.

 

Eyewitness accounts revealed targeted killings, with victims asked to recite religious verses before being shot.

 

Recovered Evidence:

 

The NIA has recovered empty cartridges of AK-47 and M4 rifles, commonly used by Pakistani terrorists.

 

Two mobile phones seized by the attackers are being tracked for potential evidence.

 

Suspected Involvement:

 

Investigators believe one of the terrorists, Adil Thokar, is a local who joined Lashkar-e-Taiba after training in Pakistan.

 

Thokar is suspected of providing logistical support to the attackers.

 

Impact of the Attack:

 

The attack resulted in the deaths of 26 civilians, including tourists, and has raised concerns about security in the region.

 

Survivors described the chaos and horror as gunfire erupted in the picturesque Baisaran valley.

 

Ongoing Investigation:

 

The NIA is conducting a detailed probe, with the videographer's footage serving as a pivotal piece of evidence.

 

Efforts are underway to track the attackers and their associates.

 

This tragic incident underscores the importance of vigilance and the role of local witnesses in aiding investigations.

 

Sources: News18, Odisha Bytes, DNA India