Intense Operation Akhal Continues in Kulgam, Three Terrorists Neutralized

Operation Akhal: Ongoing Counter-Terrorism Efforts

On Monday, the fourth day of 'Operation Akhal' unfolded in the densely wooded regions of Kulgam district in South Kashmir. So far, security forces have successfully eliminated three terrorists during this operation. The encounter involves members of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), who had convened in the Akhal forest for a strategic meeting.

Utilizing advanced technology such as helicopters, drones, and thermal imaging, security personnel are determined to locate and neutralize the remaining terrorists concealed within the challenging landscape. Despite the intense gunfire and explosions reported on Monday, the operation continues, with two terrorist bodies still unrecovered due to ongoing hostilities and the presence of potential threats.

This operation represents the third significant counter-terrorism initiative in Jammu and Kashmir within the past week, resulting in the neutralization of eight terrorists to date. Among those eliminated is Haris Nazir Dar, a local terrorist from Rajpora, Pulwama, linked to LeT and categorized as a C-category terrorist active since 2023. The identities of the other terrorists remain undisclosed, although reports indicate that some are Pakistani nationals.

Intelligence sources suggest that at least seven Lashkar terrorists, including individuals of Pakistani origin, had gathered in the Akhal forests to plan future operations in the Kashmir Valley. Prompt intelligence allowed security forces to effectively trap the terrorists, thwarting their intended actions.

While reports confirm that three terrorists have been killed during the operation, only one body has been retrieved from the site thus far. Continued firing and explosions were reported on the fourth day of the operation.

This operation follows closely on the heels of 'Operation Mahadev' from last week, which resulted in the elimination of three Pakistani terrorists linked to LeT and involved in the Pahalgam terror attack in the Lidwas area of Dachigam. Additionally, 'Operation Shiv Shakti,' conducted earlier last week in the Poonch sector, led to the deaths of two infiltrators attempting to breach the Line of Control.