SRINAGAR: A top operative of a banned terrorist group, linked to a deadly attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Gagangir area earlier this year, was eliminated during a security operation in Dachigam forest on Tuesday, officials confirmed.
Based on precise intelligence, security forces launched a combing operation in the upper Dachigam region on Monday night. The search escalated into a confrontation when terrorists opened fire on the advancing team.
The exchange of gunfire concluded Tuesday morning, resulting in the death of Junaid Ahmed Bhat, a high-ranking member of the group. Bhat was classified as a ‘Category A’ terrorist and was wanted for his involvement in an October 20 attack near a tunnel construction site in Gagangir, where seven civilians, including a local doctor and six migrant workers, lost their lives.
“Operation Dachigam: One terrorist, identified as Junaid Ahmed Bhat (LeT, Category A), has been neutralized. He was involved in civilian killings at Gagangir and other attacks,” the Kashmir Zone Police announced on social media.
The operation continues in the upper reaches of Dachigam, with additional updates awaited. Dachigam, a prominent national park near Srinagar, spans 141 square kilometres and is known for its rugged terrain, adding to the complexity of the mission.