J&K police, security agencies launch massive anti-terror operations across valley

The Jammu and Kashmir Police, along with central security agencies, have launched a massive, multi-pronged crackdown across the Union Territory.

From the upper reaches of frontier forests to the commercial hubs of Srinagar and the hinterlands of all ten districts, security forces have intensified operations targeting active terrorists, their over-ground workers (OGWs), financial conduits and sympathisers.

The sweeping offensive follows a declaration by Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat during the observances of Police Martyrs’ Day. Prabhat asserted that the state would rest only when every element associated with extremism was brought to justice.

“Our goal is clear: to identify every element associated with terrorism and extremism in Jammu and Kashmir and root it out entirely,” Nalin Prabhat said.

“Today, we must resolve that we will only rest after freeing this land from separatist and terrorist elements. I also want to warn those elements within Jammu and Kashmir who support terrorism that your days are now numbered, and even if you try to hide in the netherworld, we will hunt you down and ensure you are punished under the law,” the DGP declared.

Security intensified across the valley

In line with the DGP’s directives, security agencies have intensified operations across the Kashmir Valley and sensitive border districts.

Dozens of mobile checkpoints have been activated across Srinagar and the other nine districts of the Valley. Vehicles, commercial carriers and suspicious pedestrians are being subjected to identification checks and digital frisking. Movement along inter-district roads and vulnerable two-wheeler traffic is being monitored around the clock using high-definition optical and thermal surveillance.

Access roads leading towards critical forest tracks and mountain ranges have been locked down. Thorough combing and Search and Destroy Operations (CASOs) are underway to deny safe havens to infiltrating groups and remaining terrorists attempting to blend in with civilians.

Recent counter-terror operations

The Valley-wide sweep builds on a series of recent counter-terrorism operations by security forces along the Line of Control (LoC) and in rugged upper terrain. Security forces have intercepted multiple infiltration attempts launched from Pakistan-based launchpads across the Pir Panjal and northern sectors.

Coordinated intelligence operations by the Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Army have also neutralised active terror cells during forest cordons. Security forces have recovered substantial caches of arms, ammunition and explosive devices allegedly intended to target infrastructure and public harmony.

Action against terror financing

Beyond operations against armed terrorists, the police have accelerated the attachment of properties, vehicles and commercial establishments linked to terror financing and narcotics trafficking under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).

The action aims to dismantle the financial backbone supporting anti-national elements.

With elite tactical units deployed, intelligence networks operating in real time and a zero-tolerance policy enforced by the top command, the security establishment has sent a clear message across the Valley: “The net is closing, and there is nowhere left to hide, so you can run but you can’t hide.”