In a significant development, security agencies have unveiled a photograph of a notorious Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) commander, Reyan Haider, suspected to be the mastermind behind the recent ambush on an Indian Air Force (IAF) convoy in the Sanai Top region of Poonch. The attack, which occurred on May 4, resulted in the tragic death of one soldier and left four others wounded.
The photograph, believed to be of Haider alias Chhotu from Pakistan, bears a striking resemblance to one of the suspects depicted in sketches previously released by military intelligence on May 6, according to sources within intelligence circles.
Following the assault, military intelligence had swiftly circulated sketches of two Pakistani terrorists, offering a substantial reward of ₹20 lakh to anyone providing information leading to their apprehension. The posters, prominently displaying the sketches alongside contact numbers for informants, underscored the urgency of capturing these individuals.
Insiders within intelligence agencies revealed that Haider has since gone underground and taken measures to alter his appearance. It is believed that he benefits from a network of sleeper cells, facilitating his evasion of law enforcement.
The People’s Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), purportedly the propaganda arm of LeT, had promptly claimed responsibility for the attack, even disseminating a video on social media channels shortly thereafter.
Further investigations into the incident have pointed towards the involvement of another LeT operative, Habibullah Malik, known by the alias Sajid Jutt. Malik, a resident of Pakistan’s Kasur district in Punjab province, has been on the radar of India’s National Investigation Agency (NIA) for his alleged role in orchestrating terror activities in the Rajouri and Poonch regions. Despite being wanted by Indian authorities, Jutt remains elusive within Pakistan’s borders.
The attack on May 4, which targeted an Indian Air Force convoy in the Surankote area of Poonch district, has heightened tensions in the region, underlining the persistent threat posed by militant outfits operating across the Line of Control (LoC).
