Kashmir Operation Intensifies: Two Terrorists Remain Trapped Inside Shopian Cordon Area

Security forces are continuing a large-scale anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district after two suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists were reportedly sighted in a dense orchard in the Chanapora area. The operation, which began on Saturday, has entered its second day, with additional troops deployed to tighten the security cordon. The search is taking place during the ongoing 57-day Amarnath Yatra, making it one of the most significant counter-terror operations in the Valley in recent months.

Confirming the operation, Kashmir Inspector General of Police (IGP) V K Birdi said security forces were continuing the search in the Chanapora area. According to officials, a joint team comprising the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and the Indian Army launched the operation after surveillance cameras reportedly captured the movement of two local militants in the orchard. The suspects have been identified as Latif and Zakir, both of whom are believed to be associated with the Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba.

Officials said there was a brief exchange of gunfire between security personnel and the suspected terrorists during the initial phase of the operation on Saturday. Following the encounter, reinforcements were rushed to the area to strengthen the siege and prevent the militants from escaping. Security forces have deployed drones, sniffer dogs and other advanced surveillance equipment to track the movement of the suspects through the densely vegetated terrain. However, officials said there had been no further contact with the militants after the initial exchange of fire.

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According to security officials, both suspected terrorists are local recruits. Zakir is believed to have joined Lashkar-e-Taiba in 2024, while Latif reportedly became part of the outfit last year. Authorities said dismantling local militant networks remains a key priority, as these operatives often play an important role in providing logistical support, facilitating movement and encouraging fresh recruitment into terrorist organisations. Intelligence agencies continue to monitor such networks as part of broader counter-insurgency efforts in the region.

Shopian has long been considered a strategically important district due to its location, serving as a transit corridor connecting south Kashmir with central Kashmir and the Pir Panjal region in Jammu. The area's dense orchards and forested landscape have historically provided cover for militant movement, making security operations particularly challenging. The latest operation is the first major anti-terror action in the Kashmir Valley since the commencement of this year's Amarnath Yatra, during which security has been significantly intensified to safeguard pilgrims and prevent any disruption.

Security forces have maintained a high state of alert across the Valley as the operation continues. Officials said the primary objective is to neutralise the suspected militants while ensuring the safety of civilians in the area. Search operations were ongoing at the time of the latest reports, with authorities closely monitoring the situation and urging residents to cooperate with security personnel. The outcome of the operation is expected to play an important role in maintaining security during the ongoing pilgrimage and in sustaining counter-terror efforts across Jammu and Kashmir.

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