Several most-wanted terrorists based in Pakistan were seen attending the funeral of Arjumand Gulzar Dar, also known as Hamza Burhan, in Islamabad, drawing renewed attention to allegations that Pakistan shelters globally wanted terror operatives. Dar, a top commander of the banned Al-Badr outfit, was reportedly shot dead by unidentified gunmen in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir before being buried in the capital.
Funeral Gathering Raises Concerns
Visuals from the funeral showed the presence of Syed Salahuddin, the chief of Hizbul Mujahideen, and Al-Badr chief Bakht Zameen Khan, along with heavy armed security. Terrorists carrying AK-47 rifles and other modern weapons were seen guarding the gathering. The event took place under tight security, with reports suggesting that security around Zameen Khan had been intensified amid a series of mysterious killings of wanted terrorists in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in recent years.
Growing Evidence of Terror Sanctuaries
The funeral has once again brought to the forefront the issue of Pakistan providing safe havens to individuals designated as global terrorists by the United Nations and other international bodies. The presence of high-profile terrorists at a public event in Islamabad underscores the challenges faced by the international community in countering terrorism in the region.
Several wanted terrorists, including those with bounties on their heads, were seen mingling openly at the funeral, raising questions about the effectiveness of Pakistan's counter-terrorism efforts. The gathering also highlighted the nexus between various terrorist outfits operating in the region.
Mysterious Killings Continue
In recent years, there have been several mysterious killings of wanted terrorists in Pakistan and PoK. These incidents have often been attributed to internal rivalries or targeted operations by unknown assailants. The security around Bakht Zameen Khan, the Al-Badr chief, was reportedly increased following a series of such killings, indicating a climate of fear even among the most hardened militants.
The funeral of Hamza Burhan served as a stark reminder of the persistent threat posed by terrorist networks operating from Pakistani soil. The international community has repeatedly called on Pakistan to take decisive action against all terrorist groups and dismantle their infrastructure.
