New Delhi: Operation Keller, a recent counter-terrorism operation conducted by Indian security forces in the Kashmir Valley, has concluded with the neutralisation of three terrorists linked to the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). This operation follows the ongoing Operation Sindoor and represents a significant escalation in India’s counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
The primary objective of Operation Keller was to apprehend or eliminate the terrorists responsible for the devastating Pahalgam attack on April 22nd, which tragically claimed the lives of 26 civilians. Following the attack, the terrorists escaped into the dense forests of Kashmir, a known haven for insurgent groups for many years. Intelligence reports pinpointed the presence of these terrorists in the Shoekal Keller region, leading to the launch of Operation Keller.
The operation faced considerable challenges due to the difficult terrain. The dense forests, rocky slopes, and lack of network connectivity significantly hampered search and rescue operations and effective communication amongst security forces. The tall trees posed a challenge for drone surveillance, while the region’s inaccessibility further complicated the situation.
The operation, which reportedly began in the Kulgam district and extended into Shopian, involved a prolonged gunfight before the three terrorists were ultimately killed. The bodies of Shahid Kuttay, Adnan Shafi Dar, and Haris Nazir were recovered along with three AK-47 rifles and a substantial amount of ammunition, indicating the group’s intent to carry out further attacks.
The recovered ammunition underscores the significant threat posed by these groups. Authorities have also focused on apprehending three other terrorists, Adil Hussain Thoker, Ali Bhai, and Hashim Musa, identified as responsible for the Pahalgam attack. Posters have been distributed, and a reward offered for information leading to their arrest.
The use of dense forests as hideouts by terrorist groups in Kashmir has been a persistent challenge for security forces for decades, and Operation Keller highlights the ongoing struggle to maintain stability in the region. The operation is viewed as a continuation of the intensified counter-terrorism campaign in the Valley and underscores the complexity of the security situation in Kashmir.
