Army plugs all escape routes as 2 LeT terrorists cornered in Jammu and Kashmir's orchard
PTC News Desk: Security forces on Sunday resumed a major anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian after an overnight pause, with two suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists still believed to be hiding inside a dense orchard in the Meemandar area.
The joint operation, involving the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force, entered its second day as forces tightened the cordon around the area. Officials identified the trapped terrorists as Zakir and Latif, both residents of Kulgam district.
The encounter began when the terrorists allegedly opened fire on an Army patrol, triggering a gunfight. While initial reports suggested the two had been killed, officials clarified on Sunday that search operations were still underway and both are believed to remain trapped.
The Army's Victor Force has deployed additional personnel to block escape routes through the thick orchard, while security forces have illuminated the area to reduce the cover provided by dense foliage. Several Army, police, and CRPF teams have been engaged in the operation, with four villages cleared by Saturday evening.
Officials described the operation as significant because Shopian has long been considered a key transit route for militants moving between south Kashmir, central Kashmir, and the Pir Panjal region. Security agencies believe that eliminating or capturing local operatives could disrupt militant networks and recruitment efforts in the area.
One of the suspects, Zakir Ganie, is classified as an A category terrorist and is wanted in multiple terror-related cases. The search operation was still in progress at the time of reporting, with security forces maintaining a high alert to prevent any escape.
- With inputs from agencies
