Hafiz Saeed's Close Aide, LeT Terrorist Abu Qatal Killed In Pakistan

Close ally to Hafiz Saeed and a wanted terrorist Abu Qatal has been killed in Pakistan. According to the reports, Abu Qatal was mastermind behind orchestrating terror operations against India, and was involved in the 2017 Reasi bomb attack and the 2023 bus attack on pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir.

Qatal's assassination took place in Pakistan when two unidentified assailants shot him while he was traveling in his vehicle. This event concludes years of tracking by Indian authorities. Due to his active role in planning terror attacks, Qatal had been on India's most-wanted list for a long time.

Role in Terror Activities

Qatal played a significant role in several high-profile attacks, including the 2017 Reasi bomb blast targeting civilians. He was also behind the deadly attack on a bus near Shiv Khori temple on June 9, 2023, which resulted in multiple casualties. These incidents highlighted his influence in terror activities across Jammu and Kashmir.

A trusted aide of Hafiz Saeed, Qatal held the position of chief operational commander for Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Under his leadership, LeT continued executing numerous terror operations in Jammu and Kashmir. His expertise included coordinating attacks, recruiting terrorists, and conducting cross-border infiltration operations.

Involvement in Rajouri and Dangri Attacks

Beyond Reasi attacks, Qatal was directly linked to other deadly operations. In January 2023, he played a pivotal role in terror strikes at Rajouri and Dangri, targeting civilians including children. These attacks resulted in numerous casualties and left the region reeling with fear.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) included Qatal's name in its charge sheet for these attacks. On January 1, 2023, the Dangri village strike resulted in seven deaths, including two children. An IED blast followed this incident, causing serious injuries to others.

Recruitment and Infiltration Operations

NIA investigations revealed Qatal's direct involvement with LeT's recruitment and infiltration operations. He facilitated sending terrorists from Pakistan to Jammu and Kashmir, focusing on minority communities and security personnel as targets. His actions fueled ongoing violence and unrest in Kashmir.

Operating from Khureta launch pad in District Kotli of Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK), Qatal was the self-styled commander of an important Lashkar-e-Taiba camp. Under his direction, this camp became a key epicenter for LeT's activities in Rajouri-Poonch sector.

Leadership Role

Qatal played a crucial role orchestrating major attacks within Rajouri-Poonch area. His involvement was confirmed after Nisar's arrest from Surankote Poonch regarding Bhatia Durian attack targeting an army vehicle in April 2023.

His deep-rooted network established during earlier operations allowed him to revive terror activities upon returning to Pakistan. As one of LeT's top commanders enjoying Hafiz Saeed's confidence; he reported directly to Sajid Jutt based out Rawalpindi.