In a major development in the investigation into the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) has confirmed that the three militants responsible were Pakistani citizens linked to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

The anti-terror agency, announcing significant progress in the case, stated that two local individuals have been taken into custody for providing support to the attackers who struck in the Baisaran Valley area—popularly called 'Mini Switzerland'.

The arrested men have been identified as Parvaiz Ahmad Jothar from Batkote and Bashir Ahmad Jothar from Hill Park in Pahalgam. According to the NIA, both men admitted during interrogation that they had sheltered and supported the trio of armed militants prior to the deadly incident.

“Investigations have revealed that the accused offered shelter in a temporary hut (dhok) at Hill Park, supplied food, and facilitated other logistical needs of the terrorists before the attack,” the NIA said in an official release.

The agency further noted that the terrorists specifically targeted tourists based on religious profiling, making the incident one of the most chilling acts of violence in recent memory.

Parvaiz and Bashir have been booked under Section 19 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, which pertains to knowingly sheltering terrorists. The NIA added that the probe is ongoing and further leads are being pursued.