Security Forces Bust Terrorist Hideout, Recover Arms in J-K's Poonch District

Security forces conducted a joint operation in Surankote, Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir, busting a terrorist hideout and recovering arms and ammunition. A man linked to terror activities was also apprehended with explosives. Investigations are ongoing, with additional forces deployed in the area.

Security forces busted a terrorist hideout during a joint operation at Surankote town in Jammu and Kashmir's Poonch district, police confirmed on Friday. The Jammu and Kashmir Police, in a statement, detailed the operation, stating, "On September 12, 2024, based on specific intelligence, a joint search operation was launched by Police, Army, and CRPF in Chamerd Surankot during the early hours."

"The area was cordoned off and thoroughly searched. As the forces approached the target, militants opened fire. The security forces returned fire, but the militants escaped into the dense forest. Additional forces have been deployed, and the area remains under tight security," the police stated, adding that a cache of arms, ammunition, and supplies was recovered from the hideout. A case has been registered, and investigations are underway.

Further details are awaited. Earlier on Thursday evening, another operation in the Poonch district led to the arrest of a man linked to terror activities, caught with substantial explosives and grenades.

According to the police, a joint checkpoint was set up by Jammu-Kashmir Police, Romeo Force of the 16 RR Indian Army, and 38 battalions of the Central Reserve Police Forces at Potha bypass. Security personnel observed a suspicious individual approaching from Surankote. The suspect, identified as Mohd Shabir, attempted to flee but was apprehended. A search of his belongings revealed three HE-36 hand grenades and other explosives. Initial investigations indicated Shabir was in contact with a handler from Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir. Further arrests are expected.

(With inputs from agencies.)