The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Thursday, August 28, confirmed that only three Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were responsible for the deadly Baysaran attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, according to a report by News18. This is the agency’s first official statement since Operation Mahadev, during which all three militants were killed.

Earlier reports, including survivor accounts, had suggested the involvement of four to five attackers, and initial inputs from the Jammu and Kashmir Police hinted that a local might have been part of the strike. However, the NIA’s investigation has now clarified that only three Pakistani terrorists executed the assault.

The probe revealed that the attackers had conducted reconnaissance before selecting Baysaran due to its isolated location, minimal police presence, and heavy tourist movement. The terrorists reportedly paid two overground workers (OGWs) ₹3,000 for food and shelter. Both OGWs have been arrested, and the agency is preparing to file a chargesheet against them.

The findings also corroborate the statement made by the Home Minister in Parliament that three terrorists were neutralized during Operation Mahadev. The NIA confirmed that these same individuals were behind the Pahalgam attack.