The Jammu and Kashmir Police have released sketches of three terrorists believed to be behind the brutal Pahalgam attack that claimed at least 26 lives, many of them tourists.

Identified as Hashim Musa alias Sulaiman, Ali Bhai alias Talha Bhai, both foreigners, and local militant Adil Hussain Thokar, all three now carry a bounty of Rs 20 lakh each.

The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy for Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba, has claimed responsibility. Reports suggest the attackers wore military fatigues and were armed with M4 carbines and AK-47s.

Witnesses say the assailants indiscriminately opened fire, targeting non-Muslims.

A massive manhunt is underway, with over 1,500 people detained for questioning.

Authorities urge anyone with information to contact police at 9596777666 or 9596777669 or email [email protected].

The attack has once again highlighted the disturbing trend of blending foreign and local operatives to mask cross-border terror as a homegrown uprising.