LeT Commander Bilal Salafi Killed After Eid Prayers in Pakistan

 Hemani Kandhari 

22 March, 2026 : A senior commander of Lashkar-e-Taiba, identified as Bilal Arif Salafi, was killed shortly after offering Eid prayers in Pakistan on Saturday, according to reports.

The incident occurred at Markaz Taiba, the group’s headquarters in Muridke, Punjab. Salafi was allegedly attacked by unidentified men who first opened fire on him and then stabbed him multiple times in public view.

Videos circulating on social media appear to show Salafi lying severely injured in a pool of blood, with locals gathered around in panic. Some individuals were seen attempting to lift him from the ground, though immediate assistance seemed limited.

Local media reports indicate that Salafi was transported to a hospital by members of the outfit who arrived after the attack, but he succumbed to his injuries en route.

Salafi was reportedly involved in recruiting and radicalizing youth for the group’s Kashmir-focused activities.

The motive behind the killing remains unclear, with no official confirmation on whether it was the result of internal rivalry or an external attack. However, early reports suggest the possibility of factional infighting within the organization.

The attack took place shortly after Eid prayers attended by several senior figures of the group.

Markaz Taiba, the site of the incident, had previously been targeted and destroyed during an Indian military operation in May 2025 known as Operation Sindoor. The facility was later rebuilt.

Unverified reports have also raised questions about the possible involvement of a woman in the attack, adding further mystry to the high-profile killing.