On March 19, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) carried out searches at 12 locations in Jammu as part of an investigation into cross-border terrorist infiltration. According to officials, the raids were conducted in coordination with local police and security forces, following specific intelligence reports.

According to ANI, security forces conducted searches at locations linked to overground workers (OGWs) and hybrid terrorists who assist in the movement of militants into India. The raids also targeted suspected terror sympathisers and members of various organisations. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) registered the case on October 24 after receiving orders from the Ministry of Home Affairs. The investigation was initiated based on intelligence reports about terrorists affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed infiltrating Indian territory through the International Border (IB) and the Line of Control (LoC).

Authorities disclosed that overground workers (OGWs) and other terror accomplices in villages across the Jammu region played a pivotal role in aiding infiltrations. These individuals reportedly offered logistical support, such as shelter, food, and financial assistance, to the incoming terrorists.

“These infiltrations were facilitated by OGWs and other terror associates, based in villages in the Jammu region, who were engaged in providing the logistical support, food, shelter, and money to the terrorists,” as per an NIA officer.

 This is not the first time the NIA has taken action in this case. Last year, the agency carried out similar raids in November and seized incriminating documents from several suspect locations.

The latest searches reflect a heightened effort by security forces to dismantle networks that support terrorist infiltration. Authorities have stated that investigations are ongoing, and additional measures will be taken based on the evidence gathered during these operations.

In three security review meetings in Jammu and Kashmir this year, Union Home Minister Amit Shah has instructed security forces to take a zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism. He has stressed the need to dismantle the entire terror network, including militant groups, their financial backers, and overground workers.