New Delhi: In the aftermath of the devastating terror attack on tourists at Pahalgam’s Baisaran meadow, security forces have launched a massive crackdown across Anantnag district, detaining around 175 suspects for questioning.
The operation, spearheaded by joint teams of the Anantnag Police, Army, CRPF, and other security agencies, has involved extensive cordon and search operations (CASOs) over the past four days. Officials said raids have been conducted day and night across multiple locations, aiming to dismantle the terror support networks believed to be operating in the area.
Heightened security measures
“As part of these operations, numerous raids were conducted at various locations throughout the district. Day and night search operations are underway with heightened vigilance. So far, around 175 suspected have been detained for questioning to dismantle the support networks aiding terrorist activities,” a police statement said, according to news agency UNI.
The heightened security measures come after the deadly attack on April 22, when terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists at Baisaran meadow, killing 26 people — and injuring several others.
To strengthen security across the district, additional Mobile Vehicle Check Points (MVCPs) have been set up to monitor vehicular movement and prevent any escape attempts by militants or their supporters. Patrolling, ambushes, and intensified search operations are underway, particularly in high-density forest areas where terrorists are suspected to be hiding.
Arms and ammunition recovered
In neighbouring Ganderbal district, security forces have also launched combing operations, given the geographical links between Ganderbal’s mountainous terrain and Anantnag. Joint teams comprising police, Army, CRPF, SSB, and elite Para forces are conducting house-to-house searches and interrogating suspects connected to Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and other anti-national elements.
Meanwhile, in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district, security forces recently busted a terrorist hideout in the forested Sedori Nala area of Machil, seizing a major cache of arms and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles, a pistol, magazines, and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces by reporting any suspicious activity.
