Bandipora Police arrest six for alleged separatist network links

Police in the Bandipora district of north Kashmir have arrested six individuals for their alleged association with the banned organisation Ittihad-ul-Muslimeen. The arrests follow an investigation into suspected separatist activities, propaganda, and cross-border funding.

The investigation reportedly centered on Waheed Ahmad Bhat, who allegedly re-established contact with a Pakistan-based handler, Manzoor Ahmad Shah, while imprisoned in Kupwara Jail. Following Bhat’s release on medical grounds in August 2024, authorities claim between 14 and 15 secret meetings were held in the Bandipora area to promote the group's ideology, some of which reportedly took place at a hotel on the Bandipora-Baramulla route.

Authorities have also identified suspected financial transactions totaling approximately Rs 7–8 lakh transferred to the network over a year. While roughly Rs 2.26 lakh was allegedly deposited into a bank account belonging to Mubeena Banoo, the remaining funds were reportedly moved via cash couriers. A case has been registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

The arrested individuals have been identified as Mubeena Banoo, Waheed Ahmad Bhat, Kushboo Jan, Mehak Jan, Aliya Jan, and Irfan Ahmed Reshi.