Daijiworld Media Network - Srinagar
Srinagar, Jul 11: The Jammu and Kashmir Special Investigation Agency (SIA) has secured an Interpol Red Corner Notice (RCN) against an alleged Hizbul Mujahideen operative accused of masterminding the 2013 terror attack in the Hygam area of Sopore, marking a significant step in the long-running investigation.
The Red Corner Notice has been issued against Imtiyaz Ahmad Kandoo, also known by the aliases Fayaz and Sajad, who is alleged to have played a key role in the April 26, 2013, attack on a police team at Peer Mohalla in Hygam. The assault, carried out with automatic weapons, resulted in the deaths of four Jammu and Kashmir Police personnel.
According to the SIA, the Interpol notice will assist international law enforcement agencies in tracing, detaining and facilitating the extradition of Kandoo to India to face trial.
The case was originally registered at Tarzoo Police Station in Sopore and was transferred to the SIA in 2024 for a detailed investigation. Officials said the agency carried out an extensive probe involving forensic examination, witness statements, evidence analysis and reconstruction of the alleged conspiracy before filing a comprehensive chargesheet against six accused persons in July 2024.
During the course of the investigation, two of the accused—Tariq Ahmad Mir of Kalamabad, Handwara, and Qayoom Najar of Batapora, Sopore—were killed in separate encounters with security forces. Three others, Javid Ahmad Mattoo, Rouf Najar and Ahmadullah Malla, have been arrested and are currently facing trial.
Investigators identified Kandoo as the principal accused in the case. A resident of Kraltang in Sopore, he is believed to have crossed into Pakistan after the attack and has remained absconding despite sustained efforts to apprehend him.
Officials said Kandoo has allegedly been associated with Hizbul Mujahideen since 2010 and served as one of its commanders. In October 2022, the Government of India designated him an individual terrorist for his alleged involvement in militant activities.
The SIA stated that its investigation linked Kandoo not only to the Hygam attack but also to several other terrorism-related cases. He is wanted in at least 10 cases involving attacks on security personnel, targeted killings, illegal arms smuggling and alleged narco-terror financing.
The agency described the issuance of the Interpol Red Corner Notice as a major investigative achievement, saying it reflects its ability to pursue fugitives across international jurisdictions and strengthen efforts to bring those accused of terrorism to justice.
Officials reiterated that the SIA will continue to track absconding militants and dismantle terror networks by using all available legal and international mechanisms.