Srinagar, Jan 05: Security forces, in collaboration with the police, successfully neutralized a terrorist affiliated with the proscribed outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) during an anti-terrorist operation in the Chotigam area of Shopian district in South Kashmir.
Police in a statement said,”The joint cordon and search operation, launched in response to specific intelligence, led to a fierce encounter as the terrorist opened fire on the approaching security personnel.
The eliminated terrorist has been identified as Bilal Ahmed Bhat, son of Ghulam Rasool Bhat, hailing from Chek Cholan. Bilal Ahmed Bhat was not only associated with LeT but was also implicated in various terror-related activities, including the killing of local army personnel Umer Fayaz in Sudsan Kulgam. He was responsible for a grenade attack on non-local laborers in Hermain, resulting in the tragic death of two laborers. Additionally, he was involved in the targeted killing of Kashmiri Pandit Sunil Kumar Bhat and injuring another, Pretimber Nath, both residents of Chotigam Shopian”.
“The terrorist also played a role in instigating local youth to join the ranks of terrorism, influencing 12 individuals to take up arms. Furthermore, he was linked to an attack on local resident Bal Krishan, known as Sonu. Notably, Bilal Ahmed Bhat was implicated in the killing of an arrested terrorist who was leading a search party during a cordon and search operation in Nowgam in 2022.
The successful operation resulted in the recovery of incriminating materials, arms, and ammunition, including an AK series rifle and three magazines. The recovered items have been documented for further investigation to ascertain any potential links to other terror activities.
A case has been registered by the police under relevant sections of the law, and a thorough investigation is underway. Authorities urge the public to cooperate with law enforcement until the area is completely sanitized and cleared of any explosive materials. This operation marks a significant step in dismantling terror networks and ensuring the safety and security of the region”.
LeT Terrorist Neutralized in Shopian Encounter; Involved in Series of Heinous Crimes: Police
