Operation Mahadev Unveils Terrorist Identities

During Operation Mahadev in Jammu and Kashmir’s Dachigam on July 28, Indian security forces neutralized three terrorists linked to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). The operation confirmed that these individuals were Pakistani nationals, identified as Suleman Shah alias Faizal Jatt, Abu Hamza alias “Afghan,” and Yasir alias “Jibran.” These operatives had been hiding in the Dachigam-Harwan forest belt since the Pahalgam attack, with no local Kashmiri involvement in the shooting team. The evidence gathered by security forces, including government IDs and biometric data, firmly establishes their connections to Pakistan.

Biometric and Documentary Evidence

The investigation revealed that Suleman Shah, an A++ Laskar commander, masterminded the Pahalgam attack. Abu Hamza and Yasir, both A-grade commanders, played crucial roles in the assault. Pakistani government documents, such as voter ID cards and Smart ID chips, were recovered from their bodies. These documents included voter slips from the Election Commission of Pakistan, linking them to electoral rolls in Lahore and Gujranwala. Additionally, a memory card from a damaged sat-phone contained NADRA biometric records confirming their Pakistani citizenship and addresses.

Forensic Analysis and Entry Route

Forensic analysis matched shell casings found at the scene with AK-103 rifles seized from the terrorists. DNA evidence further corroborated their identities. Intelligence reports indicate that the terrorists crossed the Line of Control near the Gurez sector in May 2022. They later moved into a seasonal hut near Baisaran valley before executing the attack on April 22, 2025. GPS data from Suleman Shah’s device confirmed their firing positions during the attack.

Command Links and Aftermath

The investigation identified Sajid Saifullah Jatt as the handler for LeT’s south-Kashmir operations. Voice samples from recovered communication devices matched his previous calls. Rizwan Anees, LeT Rawalakot Chief, was filmed organizing funeral prayers for the attackers’ families. Initial sketches released by Jammu and Kashmir Police were later clarified by the National Investigation Agency as unrelated to these attackers.