A man accused of aiding terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district drowned while trying to flee from security forces during a raid operation on Sunday.
The man, identified as 23-year-old Imtiyaz Ahmad Magray, was seen in a video—shot from higher ground—suddenly jumping into the fast-flowing Veshaw River after briefly scanning his surroundings in the forested Tangmarg area. The clip showed him attempting to swim, but the current quickly overpowered him, sweeping him away before he drowned.
Aide-Turned-Guide Ends Up Dead
According to sources, Magray had been picked up by police on Saturday. During interrogation, he confessed to providing food and logistical support to terrorists hiding in the area. He reportedly agreed to lead the joint security team of police and army personnel to the terrorists’ hideout in Tangmarg.
However, while walking with the security team the next morning, Magray suddenly made a dash and leapt into the river. The dramatic moment, showing his escape attempt and tragic end, was caught on camera. No security personnel were seen near him at the time he jumped.
WATCH THE VIRAL VIDEO:
– Imtiaz Ahmad from Tangimarg, Kulgam
– Confessed to aiding terrorists
– Armed forces asked him to lead them to a terrorist hideout
– While en route, he jumped into the Vishwa River and drownedDeath over loyalty to country. That, my friends, is called Jihad. pic.twitter.com/yyGYZuNlMH
— Indian Right Wing Community (@indianrightwing) May 4, 2025
Security Forces Deny Allegations
The security forces involved in the operation condemned the misinformation being spread about the incident. Sources close to the operation stated that there should be no blame pinned on the personnel for Magray’s death, calling it an unfortunate but self-inflicted incident.
Political Controversy Brews
The incident, however, triggered a political controversy after PDP leader and former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti suggested foul play.
“Yet another body has been recovered from a river in Kulgam raising serious allegations of foul play. Local residents allege that Imtiyaz Magray was picked up by the army two days ago and now mysteriously his body has surfaced in the river,” Ms Mufti posted on X.
Not an Isolated Case
Security sources said that this is not the first time locals have been caught assisting terrorists with cross-border ties. The use of civilian logistical support has been a recurring tactic to shield militant movement in forested belts like Kulgam.
