Investigation points to suspected Pakistan-based funding, prison links and alleged propaganda activities
Bandipora, October 24: Bandipora Police have claimed to have busted an alleged clandestine module linked to the banned organisation Ittihad-ul-Muslimeen, with six persons arrested in connection with a case involving suspected separatist propaganda, prison-based contacts and alleged funding from Pakistan.
According to the police, the case has been registered under FIR No. 168/2026 under Sections 10 and 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) at Police Station Bandipora.
Police said the investigation initially focused on Waheed Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Handwara in Kupwara district. Subsequent questioning allegedly revealed the involvement of Mubeena Banoo, a resident of Dachigam, Bandipora, and other associates.
According to investigators, Bhat had earlier been arrested in a UAPA case in Kupwara following a conference organised in 2022. During his incarceration at Kupwara Jail, he allegedly re-established contact with Pakistan-based handler Manzoor Ahmad Shah.
Police further alleged that, with the assistance of another inmate, the network subsequently focused on propagating separatist ideology through women and organising meetings to mobilise support for the organisation’s objectives.
Investigators allege that following Bhat’s release on medical grounds in August 2024, around 14 to 15 clandestine meetings were organised in Bandipora and adjoining areas. Of these, approximately five to six meetings reportedly took place at a small hotel in the area towards Baramulla.
The investigation has also revealed suspected financial links with Pakistan, with police estimating that around ₹7–8 lakh may have been channelled to the alleged module over a period of more than a year.
Of this amount, approximately ₹2.26 lakh was reportedly transferred into Mubeena Banoo’s J&K Bank account, while the remaining funds were allegedly routed through cash couriers. Police suspect that some of the money was distributed among associates, while a portion was used for Bhat’s medical treatment.
Six persons have been arrested so far in the case, including Mubeena Banoo, Waheed Ahmad Bhat, Kushboo Jan, Mehak Jan, Aliya Jan and Irfan Ahmed Reshi, also known as Rayees.
Police said the investigation has also brought to light the suspected involvement of additional individuals, including a religious cleric and two alleged couriers from Kupwara district. Their roles and possible financial links are being examined.
The investigation is ongoing to establish the full extent of the alleged network, its funding channels and the individual roles of those suspected to be involved.
The allegations against the accused are subject to judicial determination.
