Interpol Red Corner Notice Issued for Hizbul Mujahideen Terrorist in Pakistan: J&K Police

The Jammu and Kashmir Police's special cell, the State Investigation Agency (SIA), has secured an Interpol Red Corner Notice (RCN) against designated Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Imtiyaz Ahmad Kandoo, also known as Fayaz or Sajad. The notice was issued on July 11, 2026, in connection with the 2013 Hygam terror attack in Sopore that killed four police personnel.

According to the SIA, Kandoo is wanted in at least 10 additional terror-related cases, including terrorist attacks, targeted killings resulting in over 15 deaths, arms and ammunition smuggling, and narco-terror financing. Despite sustained efforts by law enforcement agencies, he had continued to evade arrest and is believed to have exfiltrated to Pakistan.

The Red Corner Notice will enable international law enforcement agencies to locate, detain, and initiate legal proceedings for Kandoo's extradition to India to face trial. The SIA described the notice as a testament to its professional investigation and commitment to bringing terrorists involved in violent acts to justice, regardless of their location.

The 2013 attack occurred on April 26, when terrorists ambushed a police party at Peer Mohalla, Hygam, Sopore, resulting in the deaths of four police personnel. The case was initially registered at Tarzoo police station and later transferred to the SIA in 2024 for comprehensive investigation.

Following extensive evidence collection, witness examination, and reconstruction of the conspiracy, the SIA filed a comprehensive chargesheet in July 2024 against six accused. Two accused were killed in encounters with security forces, three others are arrested and facing trial, and the main accused, Kandoo, is absconding. Kandoo has been an active member and commander of Hizbul Mujahideen since 2010 and was designated as an individual terrorist by the Government of India in October 2022.