J&K: SIA arrests Hizbul Mujahideen Sleeper Cell Operative in Shopian

SRINAGAR, Aug 23: The State Investigation Agency (SIA) Kashmir has apprehended an Over Ground Worker (OGW), Altaf Hussain Wagay, son of Ghulam Mohi-ud-din Wagay, a resident of Reban Gund, Behram, Shopian, for his alleged involvement in working as a sleeper cell for the banned militant outfit Hizbul Mujahideen.

According to officials, the arrest was made during the ongoing investigation into FIR No. 01/2025 registered under sections 13, 18, 18-B, 38, and 39 at Police Station CI/SIA Kashmir. During the probe, the agency gathered evidence linking Wagay with a terrorist handler of Hizbul Mujahideen operating from across the border. On the handler’s directions, the accused was allegedly orchestrating unlawful and anti-national activities, engaging in terrorist conspiracy, and propagating anti-India narratives.

Authorities stated that the activities of the accused were aimed at challenging India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, while also inciting disaffection, public disorder, and communal hatred.

Officials further added that the arrest marks a significant breakthrough in efforts to dismantle sleeper cells of Hizbul Mujahideen. These cells, according to SIA, are highly radicalized, propagate secessionist content, and maintain links with Pakistan-based terror handlers and intelligence agencies.