SHOPIAN: The State Investigation Agency (SIA) Kashmir apprehended an Over Ground Worker (OGW) from Shopian, accused of working as a sleeper cell for the proscribed terrorist outfit Hizb-ul-Mujahideen.
In a statement, SIA said the arrested individual has been identified as Altaf Hussain Wagay, son of Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Wagay, a resident of Reban Gund, Behram Shopian. According to SIA, the arrest was made as part of an ongoing investigation linked to FIR No. 01/2025 registered under sections 13, 18, 18-B, 38, 39 at Police Station CI/SIA Kashmir.
During the investigation, SIA said it had gathered substantial evidence establishing Wagay’s direct links with a Hizb-ul-Mujahideen handler operating from across the border. Acting on the handler’s directions, the OGW was allegedly involved in orchestrating terror-related activities, spreading anti-India propaganda, and furthering secessionist narratives.
SIA added that Wagay was “actively engaged in terrorist conspiracy and promoting unlawful activities” with the intent to challenge the sovereignty and territorial integrity of India. His actions, according to the agency, were aimed at inciting disaffection, creating public disorder, and fueling communal tensions.
Officials further revealed that the arrest marks a major success in unearthing a network of highly radicalised sleeper cells allegedly sharing separatist content, maintaining links with Pakistan-based terror handlers, and receiving support from Pakistan intelligence agencies
The investigation is ongoing on and more arrests are expected as SIA continues to track down other members of the network. (KDC)
