Armed forces nab two terrorist helpers in Sophian, arms recovered

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have intensified anti-terror operations, arresting two terrorist associates in Shopian and launching multiple raids across the Poonch district. The crackdown has yielded a significant recovery of arms and ammunition, underlining a renewed push to dismantle terror networks in the region.

In Shopian, security personnel successfully apprehended two individuals linked to terrorist outfits. A cache of weapons, including firearms and explosives, was recovered during the operation. These arrests are seen as part of a larger counter-terrorism effort aimed at intercepting local sleeper cells and their facilitators.

Simultaneously, Jammu and Kashmir Police, backed by other security agencies, carried out raids at around 18 locations in the border district of Poonch. The raids targeted the residences of suspected terrorist aides or relatives of active militants operating from Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). Several electronic devices were seized for forensic analysis, although no arrests were made during the ongoing raids.

Just two days earlier, police in Budgam arrested three individuals associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba. Identified as Muzammil Ahmed, Ishfaq Pandit (both from Aglar Pattan), and Munir Ahmed of Meeripora Beerwah, the trio was caught in Kawoosa Narbal area of Magam. A pistol, hand grenade, and other ammunition were found in their possession.

An FIR has been registered under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) at the Magam police station. Preliminary investigations revealed that the arrested persons had been in regular contact with Abid Qayoom Lone, a Lashkar terrorist who fled to Pakistan in 2020 and is now actively involved in cross-border terrorism.

Officials say the series of raids and arrests are part of a comprehensive strategy to neutralize threats before they escalate. With local support networks being identified and dismantled, authorities hope to reduce militant activities and improve regional security.