Hafiz Saeed Gets Fresh Non-Bailable Warrant From Jammu Court in Terror Network Case: NIA

A Special Court in Jammu has issued a fresh non-bailable warrant (NBW) against Hafiz Saeed, the founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and one of India’s most-wanted terrorists, in connection with a terror conspiracy case involving alleged support to terrorist groups operating in Jammu and Kashmir.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) moved the application seeking the warrant against Saeed, stating that he is currently in Pakistan and has been avoiding arrest. The court issued the warrant on September 8 while hearing the agency’s plea.

This is reportedly the second non-bailable warrant issued against Saeed within two months, underlining the agency’s continued efforts to bring him within the reach of Indian law in cases linked to terror activities in Jammu and Kashmir.

How the Terror Network Case Emerged

According to the NIA, the case began with the arrest of Mohammad Naqeeb Bhat during a security check at Pandach on the outskirts of Srinagar.

Authorities allegedly recovered a China-made grenade and 15 live rounds from Bhat, who is a resident of Batpora. He was subsequently booked at Zakoora Police Station under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Arms Act and the Explosive Substances Act.

The investigation that followed allegedly uncovered a wider terror network involving members linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba and its offshoot, The Resistance Front (TRF).

Several other accused persons were subsequently arrested, including two Pakistani nationals, according to the investigation agency.

NIA Names Hafiz Saeed as Key Terror Figure

During the investigation, the NIA said it uncovered information allegedly linking Saeed to the activities of the terror network.

The agency described Saeed as the “Amir/Chief/Founder” of the proscribed terrorist organisation and told the court that the Pakistani nationals arrested in the case were allegedly associated with him.

The NIA further alleged that Saeed was operating from Pakistan while providing weapons, financial support and directions to terrorists active in the Kashmir Valley.

The agency told the court that Saeed was deliberately avoiding arrest and was currently residing in Pakistan.

Court Issues General Non-Bailable Warrant

After considering the NIA's submissions, Special Judge Prem Sagar noted that Saeed's alleged involvement had emerged during the investigation.

The court also observed that Saeed was at large and that investigators had been unable to secure his appearance through ordinary means. On that basis, the court issued a general non-bailable warrant against him.

The warrant represents another legal step by Indian authorities against Saeed, who remains outside the jurisdiction of Indian law enforcement.

Key Takeaways

• A Jammu Special Court issued a fresh non-bailable warrant against Hafiz Saeed on September 8.
• The NIA alleges that Saeed is operating from Pakistan and supporting terror groups in Jammu and Kashmir.
• The case originated with the arrest of Mohammad Naqeeb Bhat and the alleged recovery of a grenade and 15 live rounds.
• The subsequent investigation allegedly exposed a wider network involving LeT and TRF-linked operatives.
• The NIA says Saeed is deliberately evading arrest and remains in Pakistan.

Why This Matters

The latest warrant adds to the legal pressure on Hafiz Saeed over alleged involvement in terror activities connected with Jammu and Kashmir. While the warrant itself does not amount to a finding of guilt, it allows Indian investigators to pursue his arrest in connection with the case. His reported presence in Pakistan, however, remains a major practical obstacle to enforcement of the Indian court's order.