Exclusive: Pahalgam terrorists fired in air after the killings to celebrate, key witness tells NIA
Srinagar, July 16 – A witness has told the National Investigation Agency (NIA) that terrorists involved in the Pahalgam killings fired shots into the air after the attack — not as a warning, but as a celebration. This detail has alarmed officials and revealed the boldness of the attackers in the latest Kashmir terror strike.
The Killings in Pahalgam
On July 8, two civilians were gunned down near the tourist route in Pahalgam, located in Anantnag district. The victims were unarmed and had no ties to the military or law enforcement. Eyewitnesses said the attackers arrived silently and escaped through nearby forest paths.
Locals reported hearing gunfire during the evening. Security teams reached the spot within minutes, but the attackers had already fled.
Terrorists Fired to Celebrate, Not Escape
A key eyewitness told the NIA that the gunmen fired multiple shots into the sky after killing the victims. “They were laughing and shouting as if proud of what they did. It was terrifying,” the witness said.
The NIA has spoken with other residents who confirmed the same behavior. Investigators now believe the gunmen used the celebratory shots to send a message to onlookers — one of power and fear.
The witness also said the attackers looked young, possibly in their 20s, and wore masks. One kept looking around to make sure people were watching. “They wanted to be seen,” the witness said.
A Disturbing Trend in Militancy
Security experts say this marks a disturbing new tactic. While militants sometimes fire into the air for intimidation, using gunfire to celebrate murders is rare and alarming.
“This wasn’t just an ambush. It was a performance,” said Lt. Gen. (Retd) Syed Ata Hasnain. “It’s designed to spread fear and inspire more recruits through spectacle.”
He added that such actions show a dangerous mix of radicalisation and propaganda. Militants want to control the narrative and use violence to gain attention.
NIA Links Case to Cross-Border Plot
NIA officials are exploring links to cross-border terror networks. Bullet casings recovered at the scene matched weapons known to be supplied from Pakistan, a senior officer confirmed.
The agency also suspects that handlers from across the border gave instructions through encrypted chat apps. “We’re checking if the firing was meant for a video. These clips are often shared to gain support online,” the officer said.
So far, investigators have detained four suspects. They also seized phones and SIM cards from multiple homes across Anantnag and Pulwama.
Fear in the Valley
The attack and the post-killing celebration have left residents shaken. “We’ve always lived in peace here,” said Zubair Ahmad, who owns a small shop near the site. “Now we feel unsafe even walking to work.”
The local panchayat has asked for more police patrols and round-the-clock security, especially with the Amarnath Yatra currently underway.
“Thousands of pilgrims visit daily. Any further violence could put everyone at risk,” said a local councillor.
Leaders Respond Strongly
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha condemned the killings. “This was a cowardly act. The killers will face justice,” he said. His office promised extra security in sensitive zones and support for the victims’ families.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also commented in Parliament. “We will not let terrorism succeed. NIA and J&K Police will work together to finish these networks,” he said.
Tighter Security and Tracking
Following the attack, security forces launched a massive search operation. Troops scanned forested areas with drones and used night-vision devices for ground sweeps. The Army confirmed they recovered several items from a hideout believed to be used by the attackers.
The Home Ministry has ordered checks on funding sources. Investigators are tracking whether any local businesses or individuals supported the group with money, supplies, or shelter.
The Bigger Message Behind the Gunfire
The firing in the air after the murders is not just a detail — it’s a message. It shows how terror groups want to dominate local psychology through fear and celebration of violence.
“It’s no longer about hiding in the shadows,” said an NIA source. “They want to be seen. They want locals to witness the violence and feel helpless.”
This approach adds pressure on both security agencies and communities, as militants now blend terror with propaganda.
