Mir Aatif
Bandipora, October 24: Bandipora Police have arrested six persons in connection with a case involving alleged links to the banned organisation Ittihad-ul-Muslimeen, suspected funding from Pakistan and activities related to separatist propaganda, officials said.
The case has been registered as FIR No. 168/2026 under Sections 10 and 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) at Police Station Bandipora.
According to police, the investigation initially focused on Waheed Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Handwara in Kupwara district. During questioning, investigators allegedly traced links to Mubeena Banoo, a resident of Dachigam in Bandipora, and other individuals suspected of being associated with the alleged network.
Police said Bhat had previously been arrested in a UAPA case in Kupwara following a conference held in 2022. During his detention at Kupwara Jail, he allegedly re-established contact with a Pakistan-based handler identified as Manzoor Ahmad Shah.
Investigators suspect that the network subsequently attempted to propagate separatist ideology through women and organised meetings to mobilise support for the organisation. Police are also examining the alleged role of another inmate in facilitating these activities.
According to the investigation, around 14 to 15 meetings were allegedly organised in Bandipora and adjoining areas after Bhat was released on medical grounds in August 2024. Police said approximately five to six of these meetings were reportedly held at a small hotel in the area towards Baramulla.
The probe has also indicated suspected financial links with Pakistan. Police estimate that approximately ₹7 lakh to ₹8 lakh may have been channelled to the alleged network over a period exceeding one year.
Of this amount, around ₹2.26 lakh was reportedly transferred to Mubeena Banoo’s account at J&K Bank, while the remaining funds were allegedly delivered through cash couriers. Investigators suspect that some of the money was distributed among associates, while a portion was used to meet Bhat’s medical expenses.
The six arrested persons have been identified as Mubeena Banoo, Waheed Ahmad Bhat, Kushboo Jan, Mehak Jan, Aliya Jan and Irfan Ahmed Reshi, also known as Rayees.
Police said the investigation had also brought to light the suspected involvement of other individuals, including a religious cleric and two alleged couriers from Kupwara district. Their roles and possible links to the suspected financial transactions are being examined.
The investigation is continuing to establish the alleged network’s structure, trace its funding channels and determine the roles of individuals suspected of involvement.
The allegations against the accused have not been established in court. Their guilt, if any, remains subject to judicial determination.(KINS)