Diplomat Correspondent
Srinagar, (DD):In a major counter-terrorism breakthrough in South Kashmir, security forces neutralized six terrorists in two separate, high-stakes operations conducted in the Kelar and Tral areas. The operations, led by units under the Victor Force, were aimed at disrupting militant activity in the region’s higher reaches and civilian-populated zones.
Major General Dhananjay Joshi, General Officer Commanding (GOC) Victor Force, confirmed the successful outcome of both encounters. “On 12th May, we received credible information about the possible presence of a terrorist group in the higher reaches of Kelar. On the morning of 13th May, movement was detected and our troops challenged the terrorists. They retaliated with fire, but our parties successfully neutralized them,” he stated.
In a parallel operation in Tral, security forces faced a complex challenge. “As we were laying a cordon in a border village, terrorists took position inside multiple civilian houses and opened fire. Our immediate concern was to ensure the safety of the villagers. After securing them, our teams engaged the terrorists, neutralizing three,” Maj Gen Joshi added.
Among the six terrorists killed, one has been identified as Shahid Kutte, a key operative involved in two major attacks, including one on a German tourist. He was also linked to terror financing networks in the region.
The operations underscore a renewed focus on high-altitude and residential-area threats, and mark a significant achievement for counter-terror efforts ahead of the summer season when infiltration attempts typically spike.
Security agencies have launched further investigations to trace the network linked to the eliminated group.(DD)