In a significant development, Javed Ahmed Mattoo, a notorious terrorist associated with the Hizb-ul-Mujahideen outfit in Jammu and Kashmir, was apprehended by the Special Cell of Delhi Police on Thursday. Mattoo, who had a bounty of Rs 10 lakh on his head, was wanted in connection with 11 terror attacks in the region.
Arrest and Seizure
The arrest was carried out in a coordinated operation involving central agencies. Upon his arrest, the police recovered a pistol, six live cartridges, and a stolen vehicle from Mattoo’s possession. His apprehension marks a major breakthrough for security forces combating terrorism in the region.
Terror Activities and Profile
Mattoo, a resident of Sopore, Jammu and Kashmir, had previously gone underground following an encounter with security forces where he sustained injuries. He later escaped to Nepal on the directives of Pakistan’s spy agency, ISI. Known for his involvement in multiple grenade attacks and the killing of five police personnel, Mattoo was among the top 10 targets identified by security agencies in the Valley.
Network and Operations
The police were alerted to Mattoo’s presence in the Delhi-NCR region following intelligence inputs about his intention to collect arms and ammunition. Sources monitoring sleeper cells and weapon suppliers were activated, leading to his eventual arrest. Investigations also revealed that Mattoo was responsible for managing finances and logistics, including weapon procurement, from ISI handlers based in Pakistan.
Recent Activities
Last year, a video had surfaced showing Mattoo’s brother unfurling the Indian Tricolour at their residence in Sopore ahead of Independence Day, indicating the family’s ties with the region.
The apprehension of Javed Ahmed Mattoo marks a significant victory for security forces in their ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks operating in Jammu and Kashmir.
