KATHUA: In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to counter terrorist activities, Kathua Police have arrested two Over Ground Workers (OGWs) linked to terror-related activities.
These individuals were also found to have purposefully withheld crucial information from the police, thereby obstructing counter-terrorism efforts.
The arrested individuals have been identified as Layaqat Ali, also known as Pawu, son of Gammi, residing in Ward No. 07, Kalna Dhanu Parole, Tehsil Billawar, District Kathua, and Mool Raj, also known as Jenju, son of Uttam Chand, residing in Bowli Mohalla, Malhar, Tehsil Malhar, District Kathua.
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The police investigation revealed that both individuals deliberately chose not to disclose vital information to the authorities, thus hindering efforts to prevent potential terrorist actions. This obstruction has been a serious concern for law enforcement agencies working to maintain security in the region.
Over 100 individuals have been questioned in connection with this case, and preventive measures have been taken against more than 40 individuals to mitigate further risks and disrupt any potential support systems for terrorist activities. The investigation led to the identification and arrest of the two OGWs.
A case has been registered at PS Malhar under FIR No. 18/2024, citing Sections 61(1), 113, 147, and 150 of the BNS 2/3 EIMCO Act.
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Earlier this month, terrorists had targeted an Army truck in the mountainous village of Badnota on the Machedi-Kindli-Malhar road in the Billawar area of Kathua district. It was the second attack in Kathua and the sixth in the region this month. The incident occurred at 3:30 PM, resulting in the deaths of five soldiers and injuries to five others. The terrorists believed to be three in number, had managed to flee the scene, prompting extensive searches in the surrounding forests.
Like previous attacks, the terrorists had positioned themselves atop a hill, launching grenades and automatic gunfire at the vehicle, which had slowed down on the rough, mud-filled road.
The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge as the police continue their efforts to uncover the full extent of the support network for terrorist activities in the region.