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Srinagar : Inspector General of Police Kashmir Vidhi Kumar Birdi said that Sunday Market Grenade Blast case has been solved and three militants associates have been arrested in this regard.
During the press conference, the IGP Said On November 3, 2024, at approximately 2:10 PM, a grenade attack was carried out by terrorists at the crowded Sunday Market in Srinagar. The blast resulted in injuries to 12 individuals, including local shoppers and vendors, some of whom sustained serious injuries. Among the victims, Ms Abida and Sumaiya Jan, a resident of Naidkhai Sumbal, remains in critical condition and is currently receiving treatment and battling for her life at SMHS Hospital, Srinagar.
Following the incident, an FIR (No. 66/2024) was registered at Kothibagh Police Station under sections 16 UAPA, 209, 115 BNS, and 3/4 of the Explosive Substances Act. A comprehensive investigation was promptly initiated. Dedicated police teams conducted continuous, exhaustive efforts over several days, which led to the identification and apprehension of those responsible for this act of terrorism. Multiple suspects were questioned, based on insights gained from affected stakeholders, local residents, and other sources contributing to the identification of the suspects.
The painstaking investigation finally led in the arrest of three terrorists identified as:
Usama Yaseen Sheikh, son of Mohammad Yaseen Sheikh, aged 28 years, resident of Ikhrajpora, Srinagar.
Umar Fayaz Sheikh, son of Fayaz Ahmad Sheikh, aged 25 years, resident of Ikhrajpora, Srinagar.
Afnan Mansoor Naik, son of Manzoor Ahmad Naik, aged 27 years, resident of Watoo, currently residing in Ikhrajpora, Srinagar.
These terror associates, now in police custody, were found to be active participants in the criminal conspiracy. It was established that Usama Sheikh, who is already listed as an Over Ground Worker (OGW) with a history of involvement in terrorism-related activities, executed the grenade attack, while the other two provided planning and logistical support, including reconnaissance. Notably, Usama Sheikh had been previously arrested in 2018 in connection with Case FIR No. 71/2018 of Nowhatta Police Station regarding terror activities and was lodged at Central Jail Srinagar for several months before being released on bail.
The investigation further revealed that the accused were acting under the direction of two identified terrorist handlers of Pakistan based proscribed Lashkar-e-Toiba terrorist outfit. However, their identities are being withheld at this stage as the investigation continues. Police anticipates further arrests as the investigation progresses.
This terror attack is a deliberate attempt on part of enemy to target the livelihood of the people, however, nobody can escape the long arms of law and people are assured that nobody would be permitted to disrupt the prevailing peaceful atmosphere.
