Fake passport, MLA’s vehicle used in terror commander’s escape to Pakistan: SIA

According to officials, Baba, then divisional commander of the outfit, managed to flee to Pakistan with the help of former MLA Gul Rafeeqi and his associates.

Fake passport, MLA’s vehicle used in terror commander’s escape to Pakistan: SIA

File Photo: IANS

In a renewed push to crack down on terror networks, the State Investigation Agency (SIA) Kashmir on Wednesday carried out raids at two locations in Anantnag and Pulwama in connection with the escape of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen terrorist Amin Baba to Pakistan in 2005.

According to officials, Baba, then divisional commander of the outfit, managed to flee to Pakistan with the help of former MLA Gul Rafeeqi and his associates. Investigations have revealed that a fake passport was arranged for Baba, who was then transported in the official vehicle of the legislator from Anantnag to Attari, enabling his illegal crossing.

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The case was initially registered at the Bijbehara Police Station (FIR No. 98/2005) before being handed over to the SIA for specialised investigation in 2023. So far, the agency has filed a charge sheet against four persons, including the former MLA and his private secretary, while efforts are on to track down the other accused.

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Officials said the fresh raids underline SIA’s sustained efforts to gather evidence and ensure that all those involved in facilitating Baba’s escape are brought to justice.

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