Security concerns escalate at J&K Central Jail

In a concerning turn of events, security breaches at Kot Balwal Central Jail in Jammu and Kashmir have intensified with the recovery of yet another smartphone, this time from the notorious gangster Yakub. This marks the fifth incident of smartphone retrieval within a week, casting doubts on the efficacy of security measures within the prison […]

by Ajay Jandyal - January 13, 2024, 10:57 am

In a concerning turn of events, security breaches at Kot Balwal Central Jail in Jammu and Kashmir have intensified with the recovery of yet another smartphone, this time from the notorious gangster Yakub. This marks the fifth incident of smartphone retrieval within a week, casting doubts on the efficacy of security measures within the prison premises. The recovered device is identified as a Samsung smartphone.

The latest discovery follows closely on the heels of the recovery of a smartphone from Lashkar terrorist Habib earlier in the week. The Central Intelligence Agencies have launched investigations into the security breach, as the recovery of smartphones within the jail premises poses a serious threat to the state’s security.

Habib, a Lashkar terrorist, had been charged by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in January of the previous year. The charges were related to the interception of a drone (Hexacopter) and the recovery of rounds of UBGL (Under Barrel Grenade Launcher) and Magnetic Bombs from the Dhalli area, falling under the jurisdiction of district Kathua.

NIA investigations revealed that, under the directions of Sajjad Gul, a Pakistani handler, Habib and other accused were involved in collecting, receiving, and transporting weapons dropped over drones. The weapons were intended for terrorists active in the Kashmir valley as part of a larger conspiracy to wage war against the Government of India.

Habib, along with other terrorists Faisal Muneer, Mian Sohail, Muni Mohd, Rashid, and Lashkar terror commander Sajjad Gul, was chargesheeted by the National Investigation Agency. The charges included sections under the Indian Penal Code (IPC), Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967, Arms Act, and Explosive Substances Act.

The repeated incidents of smartphone recoveries within the jail premises have put the spotlight on the jail staffs, which is now facing intense scrutiny. Authorities are taking urgent measures to address the lapses in security and prevent further breaches within the correctional facility.

QUOTES

“NIA investigations revealed that, under the directions of Sajjad Gul, a Pakistani handler, Habib and other accused were involved in collecting, receiving, and transporting weapons dropped over drones”