Who Is Riyaz Naikoo? Age, Biography and Wiki
Riyaz Naikoo, a prominent figure in the realm of political turbulence and insurgency in Kashmir, was born on April 1, 1985. As of 2025, he is 40 years old. Naikoo led the Hizbul Mujahideen, one of the most notable militant organizations in Jammu and Kashmir, where his life and actions became woven into the complex socio-political narrative of the region.
Naikoo's influence and actions have made headlines over the years, shifting from being a local militant figure to a notorious commander whose life remains closely watched. His biography reflects the challenges and conflicts inherent in Kashmir's ongoing struggle, painting a pictorial history of a complicated landscape.
| Occupation | Law Enforcement Officer |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 1, 1985 |
| Age | 35 Years |
| Birth Place | Beighpora, Jammu & Kashmir, India |
| Horoscope | Aries |
| Country | India |
| Date of death | 6 May, 2020 |
| Died Place | Beighpora, Jammu & Kashmir, India |
Popularity
Riyaz Naikoo's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
As a public figure, Riyaz Naikoo has maintained a certain stature within his community. While precise details regarding his height and weight are often less documented in mainstream reports, he is believed to have an average build typical of individuals in his demographic.
Details pertaining to his body measurements—specifically chest, waist, and overall physique—are generally not disclosed, maintaining a level of anonymity that is consistent with his lifestyle choices over the years.
As a precautionary measure to curb the spread of news, government authorities information imposed communications and information blackouts by barring internet and mobile services across Kashmir valley right after Naikoo's encounter.
Protests against the killing of Naikoo were the first since August 2019, when the revocation of Kashmir's special status took place, with at least one protester dying and 50 seriously injured with bullet wounds to the chest and some with pellet injuries in one or both eyes.
Syed Salahuddin, the head of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen, who is designated as a terrorist by India and the United States, said that "the sacrifice would help them achieve the mission that they had set out to achieve". On 10 May 2020 Saifullah, also known as Gazi Haider, replaced Riyaz Naikoo as the new operations commander.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Information regarding Riyaz Naikoo's family life remains relatively private. His relationships and dating history are rarely covered extensively in media discussions, reflecting the intimate nature of his personal affairs. While being the face of a significant militant organization may suggest a single lifestyle focused on ideology and cause, rumors about his potential partners remain largely unsubstantiated.
Naikoo’s relationship status in 2025 remains enigmatic, aligning with his general profile of limited public interactions concerning personal matters.
In March 2014, he was alleged to be involved in the killing of a Sarpanch's father, Haji Ghulam Mohd Dar in Dogripora. He was also wanted for killing and abduction of police officers, firing on a police bus and requirement in other crimes.
Net Worth and Salary
Given his standings and activities within the Hizbul Mujahideen, Riyaz Naikoo's net worth could be difficult to ascertain accurately, primarily due to the covert and clandestine nature of militant operations. Traditional forms of income like salaries and investments do not apply to Naikoo’s situation, as he likely relies on the backing of his organization, which often engages in fundraising through various, often illicit, means.
Speculative estimates could suggest a variable net worth, vulnerable to the regions' political climate and ongoing conflicts.
Career, Business and Investments
Riyaz Naikoo's career trajectory is predominantly linked to his role as a commander of the Hizbul Mujahideen. His leadership style and strategic endeavors illustrate a robust, if controversial, military career focused on influencing the socio-political landscape of Kashmir. Naikoo’s pioneering into modern guerilla warfare tactics has earned him respect among followers and notoriety among opposition forces.
Investments, as typically recognized in business parlance, do not apply directly, as the financial realm for individuals in Naikoo’s position is substantially influenced by the funding and support of his organization.
His career transition from teacher to militancy came during the 2010 Kashmir unrest when he was detained by the Indian security forces for his alleged support to separatist protesters demanding Indian forces to Quit Kashmir later he was released in 2012 after his release in the third week of May 2012 he left his home and disappeared then on 1 June
2012 he resurfaced with a gun and become a militant of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen.
In 2017 he became the commander (de facto chief) of Hizb-ul-Mujahideen in Jammu and Kashmir after the death of Burhan Wani and the defection of Zakir Musa.
Social Network
Riyaz Naikoo’s presence on social networks is likely minimal or non-existent, given the nature of his activities and the potential risks involved. Historically, many involved in militant and insurgent movements avoid publicizing their identities or lifestyles to maintain operational security and personal safety.
In the quieter circles of his community, Naikoo's legacy, rather than active social networking, forms the basis of his influence.
Education
Riyaz Naikoo's educational background is not publicly documented in detail, which mirrors much of his personal life. Most information available emphasizes a more general understanding of the socio-political climate he grew up in rather than formal academic achievements.
As a figure intertwined with the ongoing conflict in Kashmir, his education, if it exists, would have likely been influenced deeply by his environment and the themes of resistance and identity prevalent in the region.
Some of his relatives have said that he had a passion for painting, especially roses, during his school and college days. After earning a degree in mathematics he became a math teacher at a nearby school. He gave free tuition to children from economically weaker backgrounds.
