Security Forces on High Alert as Pakistani Terrorists Operate in Jammu and Kashmir
Increased Vigilance Following Operation Sindoor
Following the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, which targeted terrorist camps along the Line of Control in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, security forces are now on heightened alert regarding the activities of foreign terrorists, primarily from Pakistan, in Jammu and Kashmir.
Sources within the security establishment have disclosed that a series of urgent meetings have been held in Jammu, Kashmir, and Delhi to tackle the pressing threat posed by these terrorists. A detailed plan is being formulated to prevent any potential attacks and swiftly neutralize this danger.
Current Terrorist Presence in Jammu and Kashmir
Recent estimates indicate that there are approximately 110 to 125 Pakistani terrorists active in Jammu and Kashmir, with around 65 specifically in the Kashmir Valley. These operatives are believed to be hiding in wooded areas and are receiving logistical support from local terrorists, whose numbers are estimated to be between 10 and 12 in the region. Many of these local operatives have reportedly received training in Pakistan.
Official statistics reveal that there are fewer than 140 active terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir, including both local and foreign individuals. In the Kashmir division, there are about 65 foreign terrorists and 12 locals, while the Jammu division has around 55-60 terrorists, with only three being locals; the majority are foreign operatives skilled in guerrilla warfare.
Identified Suspects in Recent Attacks
Among the foreign terrorists, three individuals have been identified as key suspects in the recent attack in Pahalgam: Hashim Musa, Ali Bhai, and Waleed Bhai. Authorities have announced a reward of 20 lakh rupees for information leading to their capture or elimination. Intelligence reports suggest that all three were involved in the Pahalgam attack on tourists, an assault on tunnel construction workers in Sonmarg last year, and various attacks on military personnel across Kashmir. Hashim Musa is particularly infamous; he is believed to have undergone specialized training in jungle warfare while serving in Pakistan’s elite Special Services Group (SSG) before being sent to Kashmir to enhance the operations of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).
Additionally, two local terrorists, Aadil Gori from Anantnag and Zakir Ganaie from Kulgam, are suspected of having links to the Pahalgam attack and may have aided Musa and his associates in targeting innocent tourists. The police have also offered rewards for information leading to their capture.
Response to the Threat
With most terrorists hiding in forested areas of Jammu and Kashmir and supported by a network of Over Ground Workers (OGWs), intelligence reports suggest that following the success of Operation Sindoor, these terrorists have been instructed to launch attacks against security forces in the region.
In light of this escalating threat, the combined forces of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army, and paramilitary units are remaining vigilant and proactive. The intelligence network has been significantly strengthened since the Pahalgam attack, resulting in the arrest of several active terrorists and the successful elimination of six local terrorists, including two commanders from Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, in recent encounters in South Kashmir.