The National Investigation Agency (NIA) conducted searches at seven locations in Jammu and Kashmir on Friday as part of its investigation into the June 9 terror attack in Reasi, which resulted in nine fatalities and 41 injuries. The incident occurred when terrorists opened fire on a bus en route to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra.

The NIA took over the case on June 17, following directives from the Union home ministry. The bus, returning from the Shiv Khori temple to Katra, veered off the road after being struck by gunfire and fell into a gorge near Teryath village in Reasi’s Pouni area. Among the victims were a two-year-old boy from Rajasthan and a 14-year-old from Uttar Pradesh.

So far, authorities have arrested Hakam Khan from Rajouri for allegedly providing food, shelter, and logistical support to the terrorists, as well as aiding in the area reconnaissance prior to the attack.

NIA teams have been actively conducting searches in Rajouri and Reasi districts since morning, with more updates anticipated. Previous questioning of a suspect arrested in connection with the attack indicated the involvement of handlers from the Pakistan-based terrorist organization Lashkar-e-Taiba. Reports suggest that at least three terrorists participated in the bus assault.

Interrogation of Hakam Khan, also known as Hakin Din, revealed that he offered shelter, food, and logistical assistance to the terrorists, even accompanying them during reconnaissance efforts. Authorities noted that the terrorists stayed with him on several occasions since June 1. His statements led the NIA to conduct searches at five locations linked to hybrid terrorists and their operatives on June 30. The interrogation also pointed to the involvement of two Pakistan-based LeT commanders, Saifullah (alias Sajid Jutt) and Abu Qatal (alias Qatal Sindhi), who are believed to have directed the attackers.