One terrorist killed, arms recovered in J&K’s Kupwara district

Security forces continue efforts to eliminate militants in the Kashmir valley

A major counter-terrorism operation in the Lolab area of Kupwara district, Jammu and Kashmir, concluded successfully on Thursday with the killing of one terrorist and the recovery of arms and ammunition, officials confirmed. The operation, which began on Tuesday, ended with the elimination of the militant, whose identity is still under investigation.

According to the authorities, the slain terrorist was found in possession of significant war-like materials, including an AK rifle, two hand grenades, four AK magazines, and other ammunition. “The operation against terrorists in Lolab area of Kupwara district ended, resulting in the elimination of one militant and the recovery of one AK Rifle, two hand grenades, four AK magazines, ammunition, and other war-like stores,” the officials said in a statement.

This operation is part of a broader crackdown on militant activities in the region. Earlier in the week, another terrorist was killed in the Ketsun forests of Bandipora district during a separate operation. While that operation remains ongoing, authorities are hopeful of neutralizing more terrorists in the coming days.

The recent uptick in militant activities follows a period of relative calm in Jammu and Kashmir after the installation of an elected government. Intelligence sources suggest that the increase in violence is a reaction to the peaceful and largely participatory elections, which militants have been unable to disrupt. Officials have pointed to terrorist handlers across the border in Pakistan, who are reportedly frustrated by the democratic process and the growing stability in the region.

This is not the first such operation targeting militants in recent weeks. On November 2, a top commander of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), identified as Usman Bhai alias Chota Waleed from Pakistan, was killed after a fierce gunfight in the Khanyar area of Srinagar. The encounter also left two local policemen and two CRPF personnel injured.

Terrorist attacks have continued to target civilians and security forces alike. In Ganderbal district, six non-local workers and a local doctor were killed in Gagangir in late October by militants while they were working on an infrastructure project aimed at improving the region’s road network. The workers were part of a critical project to build a tunnel linking Srinagar and Sonamarg, which would enhance connectivity and promote economic growth in the region.

Additionally, last month, terrorists killed three Army soldiers and two porters in the Botapathri area of Gulmarg in Baramulla district. Terrorist attacks have also targeted non-local workers in Shopian and Budgam, although the workers managed to escape with minor injuries.

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha has directed security forces to intensify operations against terrorists and their supporters, including those who provide shelter and assistance. He also issued orders to destroy properties harboring militants. The rise in terrorist activities in traditionally peaceful areas remains a concern for local authorities, who continue to focus on preserving the security and stability of the region.

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