"Hafiz Saeed May Face Similar Fate": Experts Warn After Nephew Abu Qatal Killed in Pakistan

The assassination of LeT terrorist Abu Qatal in Pakistan sparks speculation that 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed could be next on the target list.

New Delhi, March 17, 2025:

In a major development, Abu Qatal, the nephew of 26/11 Mumbai attacks mastermind Hafiz Saeed, was shot dead in Pakistan. The Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist, who was a key handler in multiple terror strikes in India, was gunned down on Mangla-Jhelum Road late Saturday night, according to local reports.

Security analysts believe this killing is a warning sign for Hafiz Saeed, who remains one of India’s most wanted terrorists.

Also Read: LeT Terrorist Abu Qatal, Mastermind of Rajouri Attack, Killed in Pakistan

"Those tracking Hafiz Saeed and his associates have come very close. Abu Qatal’s elimination suggests that Saeed himself may not be safe for much longer," foreign affairs expert Robinder Sachdeva told ANI.

Hafiz Saeed on High Alert?

The attack, which also claimed the life of Qatal’s armed guard, has reportedly sent shockwaves through Pakistan’s terror network. Experts speculate that Saeed may have heightened his security, fearing that he could be next.

Also Read: China Welcomes PM Modi’s Remarks, Calls India-China Ties a ‘Ballet Dance Between Dragon and Elephant’

"Saeed will likely strengthen his security and seek additional protection from the Pakistani army, though they already guard him heavily," Sachdeva added.

Interestingly, reports indicate that another individual was injured in the attack and has been admitted to a Pakistan military hospital. Some unconfirmed reports suggest that the injured person could be Hafiz Saeed himself.

Also Read: Did PM Modi Prevent a Nuclear War? Poland Minister Claims Modi Persuaded Putin to Refrain from Tactical Strikes

"No Terrorist Is Safe in Pakistan"

Retired Indian Army officer Major General Dhruv C Katoch noted that terrorists are no longer safe in Pakistan, even with military protection.

"Whether it is Hafiz Saeed or not, the key takeaway is that these terrorists cannot sleep peacefully anymore. Despite the Pakistani Army's security, they will be hunted down," he asserted.

India’s Most Wanted: The Fate of Hafiz Saeed

Hafiz Saeed, the founder of Lashkar-e-Taiba, has been accused of masterminding the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks that killed over 170 people. Despite multiple international sanctions, he has largely enjoyed state protection in Pakistan.

However, Abu Qatal’s killing might signal a shift in the dynamics, with growing speculation that Saeed’s time may be running out.

What We Know So Far:

• Abu Qatal, a key handler in multiple terror strikes in India, was shot dead in Pakistan.
• His armed guard was also killed, while another mystery individual was hospitalized—possibly Hafiz Saeed.
• Experts suggest that Saeed’s security concerns have escalated following this assassination.
• Pakistan remains tight-lipped about the attack, fueling speculation about its motives.

With increased international pressure and growing instability, it remains to be seen how long Hafiz Saeed can evade his fate.

---

Tags:

#HafizSaeed, #Terrorism, #LashkarETaiba, #Pakistan, #IndiaPakistan, #AbuQatal, #GlobalSecurity, #26_11Mumbai, #CounterTerrorism, #PakistanPolitics,