Interpol – Red Corner Notice Issued Against Hizbul Militant in 2013 Sopore Attack Case
Interpol – The Jammu and Kashmir Special Investigation Agency (SIA) has secured an Interpol Red Corner Notice against an alleged Hizbul Mujahideen operative wanted in connection with the deadly 2013 terrorist attack on a police team in the Hygam area of Sopore. The development is being viewed as an important step in the long-running investigation, enabling international law enforcement agencies to assist in locating the accused and facilitating legal procedures that could eventually lead to his extradition to India.
International Action in Long-Pending Terror Investigation
According to the SIA, the Red Corner Notice has been issued against Imtiyaz Ahmad Kandoo, also known by the aliases Fayaz and Sajad. Investigators said the notice reflects years of detailed investigative work and strengthens efforts to bring individuals accused of serious terrorism-related offences before Indian courts, regardless of where they may currently be residing.
Officials stated that the international alert allows police agencies across member countries to identify, detain and initiate legal action against the wanted accused in accordance with applicable laws and extradition procedures.
Case Linked to Deadly 2013 Sopore Ambush
The case relates to a terrorist attack carried out on April 26, 2013, at Peer Mohalla in the Hygam area of Sopore. During the assault, armed militants allegedly opened fire on a Jammu and Kashmir Police patrol using automatic weapons. Four police personnel lost their lives in the attack, making it one of the most significant strikes against security forces in the region during that period.
The investigation was originally handled by Police Station Tarzoo before being transferred to the Special Investigation Agency in 2024 for a more detailed and comprehensive probe.
Fresh Evidence Strengthened the Chargesheet
Investigators said the renewed inquiry involved collecting additional evidence, questioning witnesses, examining technical material and reconstructing the sequence of events surrounding the attack. Based on the findings, the agency expanded the scope of the case by incorporating further offences supported by newly obtained evidence.
A detailed chargesheet was submitted before the competent trial court in July 2024 against six individuals allegedly connected to the conspiracy behind the attack.
Progress Against Other Accused
The SIA said significant action has already been taken against the remaining accused named in the case. Two suspects, Tariq Ahmad Mir from Kalamabad in Handwara and Qayoom Najar of Batapora, Sopore, were killed during separate encounters with security forces.
Meanwhile, Javid Ahmad Mattoo and Rouf Najar, both residents of Sopore, along with Ahmadullah Malla from Dalal Mohalla in Srinagar, have been arrested. Their cases are currently under trial before the appropriate court.
Main Suspect Believed to Have Left India
Investigators identified Imtiyaz Ahmad Kandoo as the principal accused in the case. Originally from Kraltang in Sopore, he is believed to have crossed into Pakistan after evading arrest. Authorities allege that he has been associated with the banned Hizbul Mujahideen organisation since 2010 and served in a leadership role within the group.
The Government of India had declared him a Designated Individual Terrorist in October 2022 because of his alleged involvement in multiple terrorist activities.
Wider Terror Network Under Investigation
The SIA said its investigation established Kandoo’s alleged role not only in the Hygam attack but also in a broader network of terror-related offences. Officials claim he is wanted in at least ten additional cases involving terrorist attacks, targeted killings, illegal arms smuggling and narco-terror financing. These incidents are reported to have resulted in the deaths of more than 15 people.
Authorities acknowledged that despite repeated efforts over several years, the accused had managed to avoid arrest. They believe the Interpol notice significantly improves the chances of tracing his whereabouts through international cooperation.
Agency Reaffirms Commitment
The Special Investigation Agency described the issuance of the Red Corner Notice as an important operational achievement that highlights its ability to investigate complex terrorism cases and pursue fugitives beyond national borders. Officials said the agency will continue working with domestic and international law enforcement partners to dismantle terrorist networks, track absconding suspects and ensure that those accused of serious acts of terrorism face legal proceedings.