Srinagar, Apr 1, KNT: Hizbul Mujahideen has claimed that a Jammu and Kashmir policeman, who recently fled with service weapons while posted at the residence of R&B Minister Syed Altaf Bukhari, has formally joined the militant outfit. The development was announced through a statement issued to Kashmir News Trust by Hizb spokesperson Salim Hashmi, quoting the group’s Pakistan-based chief Syed Salahuddin.
The policeman, identified as Naseer Ahmad Pandit of Karimabad, Pulwama, had decamped with two rifles from Bukhari’s high-security official residence on March 27. His disappearance triggered a statewide alert, and security agencies launched a massive manhunt in response.
According to the Hizb statement, Naseer has now been inducted into the ranks of the group and will be “rewarded” for what it termed a “brave and inspiring move.”
Hizb Chief Syed Salahuddin, while chairing a meeting of the outfit’s command council, described Naseer as a symbol of “resistance” and an “inspiration for others serving in the Jammu and Kashmir Police.” He expressed hope that more personnel would follow suit to, in his words, “shatter the arrogance of pro-India elements.”
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The statement further condemned alleged harassment of Naseer’s family by Indian security agencies during subsequent raids. “We warn the forces to stop targeting his family or be ready to face consequences,” Salahuddin was quoted as saying.
During the meeting, the Hizb also reiterated its commitment to continue what it calls the “freedom struggle” and vowed to persist until its “logical conclusion.” Prayers were held during the gathering for those killed in the recent mudslide at Nilnag, Laden. [KNT]
