National: In a significant counter-terrorism operation, security forces eliminated three terrorists associated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) outfit in the Shukroo forest region of Keller, situated in South Kashmir’s Shopian district, as confirmed by police sources on Tuesday.
The operation was initiated based on precise intelligence inputs, leading security forces to conduct a comprehensive cordon-and-search operation within the densely wooded area in the early hours of Tuesday. The situation escalated when the concealed terrorists initiated gunfire upon the joint contingent of police and army personnel, triggering a swift and fierce exchange that resulted in the killing of all three LeT militants. Authorities are currently in the process of formally identifying the slain operatives.
This decisive action unfolds amidst an intensified crackdown on terrorist elements operating in the region, particularly following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. Security agencies have amplified their efforts to apprehend those responsible for the Pahalgam incident, having disseminated sketches of three individuals suspected to be involved.
Adding to the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, posters have been prominently displayed throughout the Pulwama district, announcing a substantial reward of ₹20 lakh for any credible information leading to the capture of each of the three wanted terrorists. These individuals have been identified as Hussain Thoker, a resident of Anantnag, and two foreign operatives known by their aliases, Ali Bhai alias Talha Bhai and Hasim Musa alias Suleiman, all linked to the Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Further underscoring the proactive measures being undertaken, the Jammu and Kashmir Police conducted synchronized raids across Srinagar in April, specifically targeting Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and individuals suspected of having ties with proscribed terrorist organizations. These operations were conducted as part of investigations under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) and represent a broader strategic approach aimed at dismantling local support networks that sustain terrorism.
The successful encounter in Shopian also comes on the heels of India’s reported cross-border Operation Sindoor, which is said to have resulted in the neutralization of approximately 100 militants across key terror infrastructure within Pakistan, including the Jaish-e-Mohammed headquarters located in Bahawalpur and the Lashkar training facility in Muridke.
Read More: Assam: RHAC Observes “Anti-Superstition Day” on Dr. Birubala Rabha’s First Death Anniversary