Pak planning fidayeen-like attack with motorcycle bombers during Lok Sabha polls: Intelligence agencies

Intelligence agencies have alerted the security establishments in Jammu and Kahsmir on Friday, saying that the Pakistan-based terrorists have planned a fidayeen-like attack with ‘motorcycle bombers’ in the valley during the ongoing Lok Sabha polls. 

These motorcycle fidayeen attackers are named after Mughal emperors as well, say intelligence agencies. The valley on February 14 faced a massive terror attack in Pulwama, where 40 CRPF personnel were killed.

“The fidayeen attackers could be riding a motorcycle with explosive-filled bags fitted on both sides. The two-wheeler could prove to be more maneuverable and easier to reach any target,” said the intelligence agencies, adding that the attacker could strike during the polling days or even during campaigns. 

The intelligence agencies have shared terror alert with security forces. It has been directed to “sensitize and brief under command troops to keep extra vigil and alertness to avoid any untoward incident”.  The agencies are also aware that Pakistan-based terrorists are holed up in North Kashmir are large numbers. 

Jammu and Kashmir will go to polls in five phases from April 11 to May 6. The counting of votes will take place on May 23. Assembly elections are likely to be held inthe valley after the Lok Sabha polls.  

Earlier in April, a CRPF convoy was targeted using a Santro car bomb at Banihal. The explosion took place at around 10.30 am on the Srinagar-Jammu Highway. The bus narrowly escaped with minor damages in the re-run of a Pulwama-like attack. 

“The car caught fire and the rear of the CRPF vehicle suffered slight damage. However, no CRPF personnel was injured,” said a CRPF officer. 

The car was gutted. One intact and another damaged gas cylinder were found near the blast site. 

A letter recovered from the scene had identified the driver as a Hizbul Mujahideen operative, who mentioned his intention to carry out a February 14 Pulwama-type attack. 

INSIDE STORY

• These motorcycle fidayeen attackers are named after Mughal emperors as well, say intelligence agencies 
   
• The security agenc-ies are also aware that Pakistan-based terrorists are holed up in North Kashmir are large numbers