New Delhi: Security forces are continuing a major counter-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian district after two local terrorists linked to the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were surrounded in a dense orchard in the Meemandar area.
The operation was launched on Friday after Army surveillance systems detected suspicious movement in the area, which includes seven villages. Acting on the intelligence, the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) carried out a coordinated operation, establishing a tight security cordon to prevent the suspects from escaping.
By Friday evening, security personnel had cleared four villages and further strengthened the cordon around the orchard. As troops moved closer to the suspected hideout, the trapped terrorists allegedly opened fire, leading to an exchange of gunfire. Security forces responded swiftly, and the operation remained in progress.
To reinforce the mission, additional personnel from the Army’s specialised Victor Force were deployed around the area. The security forces also illuminated the orchard and sealed all possible escape routes through the thick vegetation.
Officials said the dense summer foliage has made the search operation particularly challenging, providing natural cover and creating blind spots that could be used by the terrorists to evade detection or attempt a breakout.
The two terrorists have been identified as Latif and Zakir, both residents of Kulgam district in south Kashmir. According to security records, Zakir joined the Lashkar-e-Taiba in 2024, while Latif became associated with the outfit last year.
Officials noted that Shopian remains a strategically important area because it connects south Kashmir with central Kashmir and the Pir Panjal region. They said dismantling local terrorist networks is critical, as local operatives play a key role in logistics, shelter, and recruitment for militant groups.
The operation was still underway, with security forces continuing efforts to neutralise the threat while repeatedly urging the two terrorists to surrender.
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