Srinagar: A two-day counter-terrorism operation in North Kashmir’s Sopore concluded on Friday with the elimination of two terrorists. During the operation, one civilian and two troops sustained injuries in the gunfire exchange, prompting authorities to suspend classes in all educational institutions in Sopore as a precautionary measure.
According to Inspector General of Police (IGP) Vidhi Kumar Birdi, the clash in Sopore’s Nowpora began on Thursday night and culminated in the neutralization of two terrorists. Incriminating evidence, weapons, and ammunition were recovered from the encounter site.
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One of the terrorists has been identified as Saifullah, while the other was identified as Abu Maaz. Both were affiliated with Lashkar-e-Toiba. Maaz has been active in Sopore since 2021, while Saifullah joined in November 2023.
Additionally, one civilian and two soldiers sustained injuries during the operation. However, they are reported to be in stable condition.
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IGP Birdi emphasized the heightened vigilance of security forces in addressing the surge in terrorism, particularly in the context of ongoing elections.
The encounter in Sopore’s Nowpora area occurred during a joint search operation conducted by the Army and the Jammu and Kashmir police. Earlier, on Wednesday, a skirmish between terrorists and security forces in Bandipora resulted in two soldiers sustaining injuries.