A chilling new dimension has emerged in the 22 April Pahalgam terror attack, with security sources confirming that one of the two Pakistani militants involved, Hashim Musa, is a former para commando from the Pakistan Army’s elite Para Forces.
According to Indian intelligence officials, Musa was dismissed from the Pakistan Army before joining the proscribed terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), The New Indian Express reported.
It is believed he infiltrated into Indian territory in September 2023 and operated primarily in the Budgam district of Kashmir.
Musa, a trained para commando, is believed to be an expert in unconventional warfare and covert operations, a senior security official stated, adding that such commandos possess high survival skills and proficiency in sophisticated weaponry and hand-to-hand combat.
Musa, known by the alias Suleiman, and another Pakistani terrorist identified as Ali Bhai alias Talha Bhai, carried out the Pahalgam attack alongside local accomplice Abid Hussain Thoker from Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir.
Security officials suspect that Musa’s entry into LeT may have been orchestrated by Pakistan’s Special Service Group (SSG) to reinforce militant operations in Kashmir.
Revelations about Musa’s military background came to light following the interrogation of 14 Kashmiri Over Ground Workers (OGWs), who allegedly provided logistical support to the terrorists.
These OGWs are believed to have facilitated reconnaissance missions and assisted in weapons transportation and shelter arrangements.
It has prompted authorities to shut down 48 tourist locations across Kashmir due to heightened security threats.
Investigators believe the attack reflects a broader pattern of ISI-backed infiltration, similar to the October 2024 incidents involving targeted killings of non-locals and Army personnel.
The probe continues, with indications pointing toward the involvement of additional Pakistani militants.
