A special National Investigation Agency (NIA) court in Jammu has issued a non-bailable warrant for the arrest of Saifullah, also known as Sajid Jatt, a commander of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) militant group. The warrant is in connection with the April 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam and allegations of providing weapons and logistical support to militants operating in Jammu and Kashmir. The NIA had approached the court seeking the warrant under Section 75 of the Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) against the designated terrorist who is currently absconding.
The case initially stemmed from the arrest of a suspect during a routine checking operation by the Jammu and Kashmir Police in Ganderbal district. The police reportedly recovered a Chinese grenade and 15 live rounds of ammunition from the individual, identified as Mohammad Naqeeb Bhat, a resident of Srinagar. Bhat was unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for possessing these items, leading to the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) under various sections of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the Arms Act, and the Explosive Substances Act at the Zakoora police station.
Information reaching Tahir Rihat suggests that during the subsequent investigation, the NIA alleged that Saifullah alias Sajid Jatt, who hails from Kasur district in Pakistan, was actively involved in coordinating terrorist activities from across the border. The agency claims he was instrumental in supplying weapons, funds, and operational directives to militants active in the Kashmir Valley. The NIA presented evidence to the court, including the retrieval of Jatt’s Telegram identities from a Pakistani terrorist apprehended in connection with the case. These identities were allegedly used for communication with militants operating in the Valley, and the NIA further claims that Jatt had instructed terrorists to target security forces, civilians, and government establishments.
According to the NIA’s investigation, Saifullah alias Sajid Jatt has a history of involvement with the Lashkar-e-Toiba, having served as a commander in the Kulgam district between 2005 and 2007 before exfiltrating to Pakistan. The NIA’s application for the non-bailable warrant highlighted that the accused remained at large and that the investigating agency had been unable to secure his appearance through conventional means. The court, acknowledging these submissions, granted the plea and issued a general non-bailable warrant of arrest against Saifullah alias Sajid Jatt.
The warrant has been dispatched to the Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) in Kulgam, as the accused’s last known address is reportedly in Yamrach village within that district. The execution of the warrant is to proceed in accordance with established legal procedures, with the NIA overseeing the process. This development underscores the ongoing efforts by Indian security agencies to dismantle terror networks operating from across the border and to bring individuals involved in terrorist activities to justice. The issuance of such warrants signifies a significant step in the legal proceedings against foreign-based operatives accused of orchestrating violence in Jammu and Kashmir.
The NIA’s persistent pursuit of individuals like Saifullah alias Sajid Jatt reflects a broader strategy to disrupt the command and control structures of militant organizations. By targeting commanders operating from foreign soil, the agency aims to choke the flow of resources and directives that fuel terrorist operations in the region. The reliance on digital footprints, such as the retrieved Telegram identities, demonstrates the evolving methods employed by investigative agencies in combating modern-day terrorism. The case also highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in apprehending individuals who are based outside India’s jurisdiction, often necessitating international cooperation and stringent legal measures.
The Pahalgam terror attack, which serves as the backdrop for this warrant, is one of several incidents that have prompted heightened security measures and intensified investigations in Jammu and Kashmir. The alleged involvement of a Pakistan-based commander in providing support for such attacks points to the continued cross-border dimension of terrorism affecting the region. The NIA’s meticulous documentation of evidence, including communication intercepts and the recovery of incriminating materials, is crucial for building a strong case against the accused. The court’s decision to issue a non-bailable warrant is a testament to the prima facie evidence presented by the agency, signaling a commitment to ensuring accountability for those involved in acts of terror.
The legal process initiated by the NIA is expected to continue, with efforts likely to be made to secure Saifullah alias Sajid Jatt’s presence in court. The issuance of a non-bailable warrant is a critical tool in the legal arsenal, enabling authorities to pursue individuals who evade arrest or refuse to cooperate with investigations. The case also brings into focus the legal frameworks in place, such as the BNSS, which provide the necessary provisions for dealing with absconding accused persons in terror-related matters. The successful prosecution of such cases is vital for maintaining peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir and for deterring future acts of terrorism.
The NIA’s role in investigating terror cases with national and international ramifications is pivotal. By taking the lead in cases like this, the agency ensures a coordinated and effective response to threats emanating from across borders. The collaboration between central agencies and local police forces, as seen in the initial arrest and subsequent investigation, is essential for the comprehensive dismantling of terror networks. The ongoing legal proceedings against Saifullah alias Sajid Jatt are a significant development in the fight against terrorism in the region, underscoring the determination of Indian authorities to address these challenges head-on.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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