Forces launch valley-wide manhunt after Kulgam attack; LeT terrorist Latif Bhat under scanner

The Kashmir Valley has been placed on high alert following the daylight attack on a CRPF checkpoint in south Kashmir's Kulgam district, with security forces launching an extensive manhunt across forests, villages, towns and areas close to the Line of Control (LoC).

Joint teams of the Army, CRPF, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Special Operations Group (SOG) and other security agencies have intensified operations to track down the attackers and prevent further strikes. The search operation stretches from the forested slopes of Kulgam to the higher reaches of north Kashmir's Kupwara district, while security has also been tightened in urban centres across the Valley.

The attack on November 11 left three CRPF personnel injured after gunmen opened fire at close range on a security party near Mir Bazar in the Akhran area of Kulgam before escaping into the surrounding forests.

The swift attack and subsequent escape have raised concerns within the security establishment. Sources in the security forces suspect that the operation may be linked to Mohammad Lateef Bhat, an A+++ category Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist who is considered one of the most dangerous active local operatives in south Kashmir.

Bhat, a resident of Khrewan Chader in Kulgam, is a high-value target with a reward of Rs 15 lakh on his head. He is suspected of either carrying out the Kulgam attack himself or facilitating the movement and logistics of the gunmen.

Security agencies are examining similarities between the latest strike and previous attacks allegedly linked to Bhat's network. These include sudden bursts of firing, carefully selected targets among security personnel and non-local residents, followed by a quick escape into populated areas or difficult terrain.

Investigators have also noted similarities with earlier attacks attributed to his network, including the killings of a police constable and migrant labourers earlier this year.

Manhunt intensifies across Kashmir

Following the attack, security forces have stepped up cordon-and-search operations across forests and villages in south Kashmir. Additional checkpoints have been established along highways and major roads, while intelligence-based raids are being conducted at suspected hideouts. Hundreds of people have reportedly been detained for questioning.

The security alert is not limited to Kulgam. In north Kashmir's Kupwara district, close to the LoC, forces have increased surveillance and area domination exercises.

Srinagar and other urban centres have also witnessed heightened security, with additional vehicle checks, night patrols and closer monitoring of suspected overground workers and support networks.

The objective is to prevent the attackers from escaping the security net and stop them from carrying out further strikes.

Man detained with two grenades in Baramulla

Amid the Valley-wide alert, security forces on Thursday apprehended a man carrying two hand grenades in the Baderkote forest area of Tangmarg in Baramulla district.

The individual, identified as Ghulam Jeelani Reshi, was detained during a joint area domination patrol involving the police, BSF, Rashtriya Rifles and CRPF.

One grenade was recovered from his possession, while the second was found concealed in the forest following information provided by him.

The recovery has added to the security concerns as forces continue operations across the Valley following the Kulgam attack.

LG Manoj Sinha condemns attack

Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who was in Kulgam on November 11 for an official event, strongly condemned the attack and assured that those responsible would be brought to justice. Forces have been given a free hand to act, he indicated.

Political leaders across party lines have also condemned the strike, with attention now focused on maintaining sustained security pressure and preventing further attacks.

The Kulgam incident has once again highlighted the security challenges facing the Valley, particularly the threat posed by active local terrorists allegedly operating with support from external handlers.

Bhat's continued ability to remain active despite being among the region's most wanted terrorists has become a particular concern for intelligence agencies.

As joint teams search forests, villages and transit routes stretching from Kulgam towards Kupwara and the LoC, security forces remain on heightened alert across urban and rural areas.

The immediate priorities are to identify and track down those responsible for the Kulgam attack, neutralise the threat posed by Bhat and his associates, and prevent further loss of life.