Two terrorists, confirmed to be Pakistani nationals and associated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), were killed in an encounter with security forces in Baramulla district of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday. The Indian Army identified the slain terrorists as Usman and Umar.
Brigadier Deepak Dev, Commander of the 5 Sector Rashtriya Rifles, confirmed that both terrorists were of Pakistani origin and had been active in the Kashmir Valley since 2020. The encounter unfolded after the terrorists initiated fire on security forces during a cordon-and-search operation, launched in the Watergam area of Baramulla district based on intelligence regarding their presence. During the ensuing firefight, two security personnel sustained injuries.
The operation was triggered by intelligence received through Jammu and Kashmir Police, indicating the presence of two terrorists in a house in Hadipura village of Rafiabad area. Responding swiftly, the Indian Army, JKP, and CRPF launched a joint operation, effectively cordoning off the area. Prioritizing civilian safety, residents of adjacent houses were evacuated following established protocols.
Security personnel then sealed off the target house. Upon commencing the search, the terrorists opened fire on the security forces, triggering a fierce exchange of fire. “In the ensuing firefight, two terrorists were neutralized,” Brigadier Dev stated.
Following the operation, the security forces recovered a significant cache of weapons and ammunition from the site.
Brigadier Dev hailed the elimination of the terrorists as another major success for the security forces, attributing the operation’s success to the cooperation of the Kashmiri people. The security forces, he asserted, will remain committed to upholding peace and stability in the region.
