In a major step to disrupt the terror ecosystem and target the financial and logistical networks linked to terrorism, Reasi Police have attached the immovable properties of five alleged Pakistan-based terror handlers.
The action was taken during the investigation of FIR No. 70/2024 registered at the Mahore Police Station under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and the Enemy and Illegal Migrants’ Property-related legal provisions, referred to in the case as the E&IMCO Act.
The attachment of the properties is part of the wider investigation of alleged terror-related activities and the networks operating across borders, the police said.
The move is a step in the direction of reducing the infrastructure that enables terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. Property and other resources associated with alleged terror handlers are being targeted by investigators, they say.
The five individuals are described by police as Pakistan-based terror handlers. In fact, it has been claimed that such handlers have a crucial role in coordinating terror-related activities, such as communication, recruitment, movement and logistical assistance through networks operating across the border.
The attachment of properties is intended to put pressure on individuals who are accused of supporting or directing terrorist activities from outside India.
Police said the action was made in accordance with the legal provisions mentioned in the FIR. Further action can be taken with the evidence gathered, they said.
The FIR was registered at Mahore Police Station in 2024. Mahore is located in the Reasi district in Jammu and Kashmir, but security services continue to monitor terrorist activity and investigate suspected cross-border networks.
The use of legal provisions in the UAPA is indicative of the seriousness of the charges. UAPA is India’s most central anti-terrorism law and is based on unlawful activities, terrorist acts, terrorist organisations, funding and other forms of support connected with terrorism.
The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, which replaced the Indian Penal Code, also has provisions that can be invoked in cases of serious offences and threats to national security.
Property attachment is an option for investigating authorities in cases of alleged terror and illegal networks. Transfer, sale or use of assets can be delayed by legal and criminal proceedings and investigations.
The attachment does not by itself mark the definitive conviction of guilt. The allegations against the individuals and the legal basis for the action are subject to investigation and the relevant judicial process.
In recent years, security agencies have increasingly focused on disrupting not only armed groups but the broader support systems that enable them to function. These networks might include financing, communication, recruitment, transportation, shelter and cross-border coordination.
As for the alleged terrorism infrastructure, it is necessary to respond to it to prevent attacks and to protect civilians and security personnel, they said.
Reasi Police’s move sends a message to law enforcement agencies that legal and financial efforts along with traditional security operations are integral to tackling terrorism.
Police will continue to look for evidence, search for possible associates, and see if more assets or people connect to the network.
Officials can also connect with other security and police officials if the case reveals that it has deeper connections to the suspects and wider connections to other security and investigative agencies.
The action has attracted attention because it targets alleged handlers based outside India and assets in the country. Such measures aim to reduce the influence and operational reach of cross-border terror networks.
Such a development comes at a time when several security efforts are still going on in Jammu and Kashmir, where police, armed forces and central security agencies are at the front line in counter-terrorism operations.
Reasi Police have described the property attachment as a major blow to the terror ecosystem. The case is under investigation, and further details about the properties, the persons involved and subsequent legal action may emerge as the probe goes on.
The attachment is a step in the investigation related to FIR No. 70/2024 and shows that we are still working to identify and crush the networks that are believed to have supported terrorism in the region.
