Security forces killed Lashkar-e-Taiba commander Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Musa in Budgam. He was wanted in the Pahalgam terror attack case. The encounter continued from Tuesday night in central Kashmir’s Yusmarg area. Security forces identified the slain terrorist as Hashim Musa. Locally, authorities also identified him as Suleman Shah alias Fauji Musa. During Wednesday morning searches, forces recovered his body.
They also recovered war-like materials from the Palmedan area. Security forces suspect three more terrorists remain hidden nearby. Therefore, authorities launched an extensive search operation across the area. Forces continue efforts to locate other suspected terrorists.
Joint Operation Started After Intelligence Input
Meanwhile, the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF started a joint search operation. Forces received intelligence about terrorist movement in the Korg area of Yusmarg. During the operation, soldiers noticed suspicious activities. When forces challenged the terrorists, they opened fire.
Consequently, a heavy exchange of gunfire started between both sides. The encounter ended with Hashim Musa’s death. Chinar Corps in Srinagar also confirmed Musa’s elimination. Forces recovered his body with war-like materials during searches.
The operation continued through dense forests and difficult mountainous terrain. Security forces surrounded the region to block possible escape routes.
Furthermore, authorities intensified searches due to the suspected presence of three other terrorists.
Musa Linked To Pahalgam Attack Case
According to security inputs, Musa entered Kashmir Valley through infiltration in 2022. Later, he worked to activate his network in the region.
He was also linked with terrorist activities across both sides of Pir Panjal. Security inputs claimed his role in recruiting young people.
Before joining Lashkar-e-Taiba, sources said he worked as a Pakistan Special Services Group commando.
Musa’s name appeared among key suspects in the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack. The attack killed 26 tourists.
After the incident, Jammu and Kashmir Police announced a ₹20 lakh reward. The reward sought information leading to arrests of Musa and other Lashkar terrorists.
The National Investigation Agency filed a 1,597-page chargesheet against seven accused. The chargesheet named Lashkar-e-Taiba and The Resistance Front as accused organisations.
The agency mentioned the attack conspiracy, preparation, and Pakistan-linked network involvement. Pakistani handler Sajid Jatt also appeared as an accused.
Musa Had Long Military Background
Information that emerged claimed Mohammad Asif served nearly 23 years in the Pakistan Army. His service number was reported as PA-3106947.
He served with the 4th Yalghar Battalion and worked as an SSG commando. Reports also claimed he held a Pakistan CNIC.
The reported CNIC number was 37105-9228244-5. NADRA issued the identity card with validity until 2030.
Additionally, reports claimed Musa worked in former Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf’s security team. He allegedly served there between 2006 and 2008.
After retirement, claims stated Musa infiltrated Jammu and Kashmir in 2023. Later, he joined Lashkar-e-Taiba and became a senior commander.
He was allegedly linked with attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. These included attacks in Poonch, Gulmarg, and Dera Ki Gali.
Security Forces Continue Pir Panjal Operations
Earlier, security forces killed Lashkar terrorist Yasir during a September 4-5 encounter in Yusmarg. Forces suspected his associate remained hidden inside forests.
Reports identified that associate as Asif Fauji alias Musa. Afterward, forces launched a major search operation in high-altitude forests.
Security agencies have increased operations against foreign terrorists in Pir Panjal forests. Forces have monitored these groups for a long time.
Officials linked Yasir with attacks on security forces in Poonch between 2021 and 2024. Continuous operations later revealed their movement toward forest areas.
