Pakistani National Apprehended Alive Near LoC in Mendhar Sector

Reportedly Claims JeM Training

Syam Sood

Rajouri, June 28

A Pakistani national was apprehended alive by the Indian Army near the Line of Control (LoC) in the Mendhar sector of Poonch district on Sunday, security sources said.

The individual has been identified as Raees Khan, son of Wazir Jaida, a resident of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. According to sources, he was intercepted by alert Army troops while allegedly attempting to move across the LoC under suspicious circumstances.

Sources said that between 10 and 11 a.m. on June 28, Army personnel noticed suspicious movement near the LoC.

During a search operation, a man dressed in a black kurta-pajama and carrying a handbag was found in the area. During preliminary questioning, he identified himself as Rais Khan and admitted to being a Pakistani citizen.

According to initial interrogation reports, Khan claimed that he had come from Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region and wished to establish contact with Indian security agencies and the Army. He allegedly stated that he wanted assistance in freeing his district from the influence of the Pakistani military. Security agencies, however, are thoroughly verifying these claims.

Sources further revealed that during questioning, Khan disclosed that he had received training on two occasions at camps of the Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). He allegedly stated that he was trained in the handling of arms and rocket launchers.

Investigators have learned that Khan reportedly left his home earlier this month. He later moved to Nikhyal area before crossing to the Indian side of the LoC on June 28.

The Army intercepted him shortly after he entered this side of the LoC, sources said.

The apprehended individual is stated to be around 32 years old and unmarried.

Items recovered from his possession reportedly include a Pakistani National Identity Card, Pakistani currency amounting to Rs 9000, dry fruits, dates, sweets, medicines, a knife, pliers, an electrical tester, and a rucksack containing food items, such as almonds, chips, and dates.

Security agencies are now investigating his actual motive and whether he had links with any terrorist organisation or was tasked with another mission. Detailed interrogation by the Army and intelligence agencies is continuing.

The Army has not yet officially disclosed detailed information regarding the apprehended Pakistani national, and investigations remain underway.