NEW DELHI: A top Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist, Abu Qatal, also known as Qatal Sindhi, was gunned down by unidentified assailants in Pakistan’s Jhelum Sindh on Saturday night.
Qatal was a key operative of the terror outfit, notorious for masterminding multiple attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. As a close aide of Hafiz Saeed, the mastermind behind the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, Qatal’s influence and reach were extensive. His involvement in terror activities dates back to 2002-03, when he infiltrated India and operated in the Poonch-Rajouri range, according to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).
Qatal’s killing is significant, given his role in planning and executing terror attacks. His demise may disrupt Lashkar-e-Taiba’s operations, but the group’s ability to adapt and regroup remains a concern.
The notorious terrorist created a proxy terror outfit called People’s Anti-Fascist Force (PAFF) and The Resistant Force (TRF). These groups were formed to conceal the activities of other terrorist organisations like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish, which have been active since 2019.
The terrorist played a pivotal role in the devastating attack on a bus carrying pilgrims returning from the Shiv Khori temple in Reasi on June 9. Tragically, nine people lost their lives, including seven pilgrims from outside Jammu and Kashmir, and 41 others were injured when terrorists opened fire on the bus.
It’s worth noting that PAFF was designated as a terrorist group by ministry of home affairs since January 7, 2023. The group has been responsible for several attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, targeting Indian forces and civilians alike.