J&K SIA files 4th supplementary chargesheet against 6 accused in narco-terror funding case

In a recent development, the Jammu and Kashmir State Investigation Agency (SIA) has filed a 4th supplementary chargesheet against six more accused in a case related to terror funding, bringing the total number of accused to 18. The accused have been charged under various sections of the law, including the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act 1967 and the Narcotic Drug Psychotropic Substance Act, for their involvement in criminal conspiracy and raising funds for the proscribed terrorist organization Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM).

According to the police, the accused arrested by SIA, namely Muhammad Sharief Chechi, Farooq Ahmad Jungal, and Saif Din, were found to be involved in smuggling heroin from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) in Uri, Hathlangu, Baramulla, and selling it in Jammu to generate proceeds intended for HM operatives. Three other accused, Hamidullah Khuroo, Farooq Ahmad Shawl, and Javid Ahmad Chalkoo, who are HM terrorists, are currently evading arrest and believed to be in Pakistan.

The SIA Jammu has seized Rs 10 lakh in cash and frozen over Rs 70 lakh in bank accounts, which were the proceeds from the narcotics trade. The police revealed that the arrested accused were part of a well-organized drug syndicate operating between Pakistan and Dubai, with the intention of funding secessionist and terror activities in India.

In response to the investigation, authorities have initiated proceedings to attach the property of the accused under sections 82 and 83, aiming to disrupt the financial assets created through illicit activities. The police have emphasized that the actions taken against the accused and the dismantling of their network will have a significant impact on the flow of terror funds in the region, ultimately contributing to the disruption of illegal activities.

The SIA’s findings have shed light on the intricate web of criminal activities orchestrated by the accused, involving the smuggling and distribution of narcotics to fund extremist organizations. With the collaboration of various individuals both within and outside the country, the accused were able to facilitate the movement of illicit substances and funds to further their nefarious objectives. The ongoing investigation underscores the importance of addressing the nexus between crime and terrorism to safeguard the security and integrity of the region.