A counter-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kupwara district came to a successful end on Thursday with the killing of one terrorist and the recovery of several arms and ammunition from the slain militant, according to security officials. The operation, which began on Tuesday, targeted terrorist activities in the Lolab area and was part of ongoing efforts to neutralize terror elements in the region.
Officials confirmed that one militant was eliminated during the operation, and an AK rifle, two hand grenades, four AK magazines, and other ammunition were recovered from the site. The operation had continued through Wednesday, with the terrorists being identified and engaged by the security forces.
Simultaneously, a separate operation in Bandipora’s Ketsun forests resulted in the death of another terrorist on Tuesday. However, the operation in Bandipora is still ongoing as security forces continue to search the area for remaining militants.
The recent surge in terrorist activity across Jammu and Kashmir has raised concerns among security officials. Intelligence agencies have noted a rise in attacks ever since the installation of an elected government in the region, pointing to potential frustration among terrorist handlers across the border in Pakistan. The peaceful conduct of the recent Lok Sabha and Assembly elections, marked by significant public participation, is believed to have prompted retaliatory actions from these terrorist groups.
On November 2, a major blow was dealt to terror networks when a top commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Usman Bhai alias Chota Waleed, was killed in a gunfight in Srinagar’s Khanyar area. The firefight also resulted in injuries to two local policemen and two CRPF personnel.
In a series of recent attacks, terrorists targeted workers involved in infrastructure projects, including the murder of six non-local workers and a local doctor in Gagangir, Ganderbal district, last month. These workers were part of a project aimed at building a tunnel from Gagangir to Sonamarg, a vital initiative to develop the Srinagar-Sonamarg road and promote local economic growth.
The rise in terror attacks in previously peaceful areas has been troubling for local security forces. A recent incident in the Botapathri area of Gulmarg, Baramulla district, saw terrorists kill three Army soldiers and two porters. Terrorist groups have also been targeting non-local workers in Shopian and Budgam districts, although these attacks resulted in only minor injuries.
In response to these rising security concerns, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has issued strict orders to the local police and security forces to intensify their operations against terrorists, their supporters, and overground workers. Sinha emphasized the need to target not only the militants but also those providing shelter and assistance to them.
The increasing frequency of terror-related incidents, especially in areas that were once considered free from militancy, has heightened security concerns. The authorities are concerned that these attacks are undermining the peace efforts that have been hard-won by security forces who have made significant sacrifices in safeguarding the region’s integrity.
In a strong statement, LG Sinha reiterated that houses harboring terrorists would be demolished as part of efforts to root out terrorism from the region. Security forces have been directed to continue their relentless pursuit of those responsible for terror activities and their collaborators. The authorities remain committed to ensuring the safety of the people and maintaining peace in Jammu and Kashmir.
Sources By Agencies
