Two Lashkar-e-Taiba Terrorists Captured Alive in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian District
In a significant counter-terrorism operation, security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have successfully captured two active Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists alive in the Shopian district. The operation took place in the Baskuchan area, where the terrorists had been hiding.
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a joint team comprising personnel from the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF launched a cordon and search operation in Baskuchan village. During the sweep, the security personnel zeroed in on the hideout and surrounded the suspected location.
After a brief standoff, the forces apprehended two terrorists without firing a single bullet, marking a rare but strategic success in the region’s ongoing counter-terror efforts. The arrested individuals have been identified as Irfan Bashir and Usair Salam, both believed to be active operatives of the proscribed terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba.
Upon searching the site, the forces recovered a cache of arms and ammunition, which included two AK-56 assault rifles, two hand grenades, and other incriminating materials. The recovered weapons indicate the duo’s readiness for potential attacks, and their capture has likely averted an imminent threat.
Police officials have confirmed that the two are currently being interrogated. Investigators aim to extract vital information regarding their local network, handlers across the border, logistics, and any planned terrorist activities. Early interrogation reports suggest that both individuals had been operating in the southern districts of Kashmir and had previously received training and instructions from Pakistani-based LeT operatives.
The arrest comes at a time when the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir is experiencing a surge in targeted operations against terror outfits. In recent months, security forces have intensified their efforts to dismantle the residual terror infrastructure in the region, particularly in areas like Shopian, Pulwama, and Anantnag, which have seen sporadic militant activities.
Officials see this development as a morale boost for the security forces and a clear signal to anti-national elements operating within the valley. The ability to capture terrorists alive is not only tactically advantageous but also provides valuable human intelligence that can lead to the neutralization of entire terror modules.
Locals in the area expressed a sense of relief following the arrests. With schools, markets, and daily life often disrupted by such threats, civilians welcomed the swift and professional action by the security forces. Some residents lauded the restraint shown by the forces in apprehending the suspects without any collateral damage.
Authorities have reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region. The Jammu and Kashmir Police have called upon local youths to shun violence and avoid being drawn into terrorist activities by cross-border propaganda and recruitment efforts.
As of now, further investigation is underway, and the region remains under high alert to prevent any retaliatory action by other terrorist groups.
