The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has approached Chinese authorities for assistance in tracing a GoPro camera allegedly used in the April 22, 2025 terror attack at Baisaran Meadow in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.
According to court documents, the agency has sought judicial cooperation from Beijing after investigations revealed that the device was distributed through a China-based firm.
Camera Traced to Chinese Distributor
The camera in question — a GoPro Hero 12 Black bearing serial number C3501325471706 — is suspected to have been used for reconnaissance and operational planning prior to the attack.
In an application filed before a Jammu court, the NIA said it is issuing a Letter Rogatory (LR), a formal judicial request seeking assistance from a foreign country, to obtain information about the supply chain, activation details, purchaser identity, and technical records linked to the device.
The court, in its order on Monday, permitted the agency to issue the LR to Chinese authorities.
Manufacturer’s Response
The camera manufacturer, GoPro B.V., informed investigators that the device was supplied to AE Group International Limited, a distributor based in the People’s Republic of China.
According to the company, the camera was activated on January 30, 2024, in Dongguan, China. However, the manufacturer stated that it does not maintain downstream transaction or end-user data, making it necessary to seek information directly from Chinese authorities.
The NIA told the court that critical details regarding the device’s activation, initial use, and commercial trail fall under Chinese jurisdiction and can only be accessed through formal judicial cooperation.
Background: Pahalgam Terror Attack
The April 22 attack at Baisaran Meadow in Pahalgam claimed the lives of 25 tourists and a local pony operator after terrorists opened indiscriminate fire. The incident sharply escalated tensions between India and Pakistan.
In response, India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), ahead of a ceasefire announced on May 10.
Three suspected terrorists — Suleiman Shah, Hamza Afghani alias Afghan, and Jibran — were later killed during a security forces’ operation in the Dachigam forest area on July 28.
Ongoing Investigation
The NIA continues to examine electronic devices and material evidence linked to the conspiracy and execution of the attack. Officials believe the GoPro camera may provide crucial insights into reconnaissance activities, movement patterns, and operational preparation carried out by the terror module.
Further developments are awaited following the issuance of the Letter Rogatory to China.
