A major counter-terror operation has entered its second day in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian district. Security forces have successfully trapped two local terrorists linked to the banned Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) outfit inside a dense orchard, according to official reports.
The high-stakes operation commenced on Friday afternoon after advanced Army surveillance cameras detected suspicious terrorist movement in the Meemandar area—a strategic zone comprising seven interconnected villages.
Security Forces Establish Multi-Layer Cordon
Acting swiftly on the actionable surveillance feed, a joint tactical team consisting of the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) launched a coordinated offensive.
By Friday evening, security forces had successfully cleared four of the seven villages, significantly tightening the perimeter to ensure zero escape routes for the trapped operatives.
Gunfight Breaks Out
The cornered terrorists have been identified as:
- Latif: A resident of Kulgam district who joined the LeT ranks last year.
- Zakir (Zakir Ahmad Ganie): Also a resident of Kulgam, believed to have associated with the outfit since 2024.
As tactical units advanced closer to their suspected hideout, the duo opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange of gun battles. To fortify the operation, the Army’s specialized counter-insurgency formation, Victor Force, deployed additional personnel. Forces illuminated the entire perimeter overnight and utilized thermal imaging and specialized drones to tightly seal off escape corridors through the dense vegetation.
Challenges Amid Thick Foliage
Commanding officials noted that the heavy summer foliage has presented significant operational hurdles. The thick orchard vegetation offers natural camouflage, creating problematic blind spots that the trapped terrorists have attempted to exploit to break through the security cordon.
Strategic Focus on Breaking Local Networks
Security analysts emphasize that Shopian has historically functioned as a vital transit gateway connecting south Kashmir with central Kashmir and the Pir Panjal region.
“While foreign terrorists are increasingly being deployed to execute high-profile attacks, neutralising local operatives like Latif and Zakir is equally vital. They are the linchpins maintaining essential logistics networks and facilitating regional radicalization and recruitment.”
— Security Official Statement