Javed Ahmed Mattoo, a notorious figure accused of orchestrating numerous terrorist activities in the region of Jammu and Kashmir and affiliated with the Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, found himself apprehended in Delhi on Thursday. The Special Cell of the Delhi Police, in collaboration with central agencies, successfully executed the arrest of Mattoo, adding another significant development to the ongoing efforts to curb terrorism.
Upon apprehending Mattoo, law enforcement discovered a pistol, six live cartridges, and a stolen vehicle in his possession. Mattoo, an individual with a notorious background, was sought in connection with 11 terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir, earning him a prominent spot among the top 10 targets in the Valley, according to security agencies. His capture comes with a substantial reward of Rs 10 lakh on his head.
The police narrative unfolds with Mattoo evading authorities after sustaining injuries in a skirmish with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir. Subsequently, he managed to escape to Nepal, acting upon instructions from Pakistan's intelligence agency, the ISI.
Recent intelligence tipped off the Delhi Police about Mattoo's potential presence in the Delhi-NCR region, intending to procure arms and ammunition. Swiftly acting on this information, sources monitoring sleeper cells and weapon suppliers were activated.
Further details revealed that Mattoo's handler based in Pakistan would facilitate the delivery of arms and ammunition, signaling potential terrorist strikes in Jammu and Kashmir. A resident of Sopore, Javed Mattoo, had previously visited Pakistan multiple times and was directly implicated in five grenade attacks and the tragic killing of five police personnel in separate incidents.
Law enforcement categorizes Mattoo as one of the last surviving A++ designated terrorists originating from Jammu and Kashmir. In addition to his involvement in executing terror activities, Mattoo played a pivotal role in managing finances and logistics, including procuring weapons from ISI handlers situated across the border.
Adding a layer to the narrative, a video surfaced last year, just ahead of Independence Day, featuring Mattoo's brother raising the Tricolour at their residence in Sopore. The arrest of Javed Ahmed Mattoo marks a significant stride in the ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and enhance security measures in the region.
