In an operation conducted by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district, a member of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist group, identified as Bilal Ahmed Bhat, was neutralized on Friday. Bhat was implicated in various terror-related activities, including the killing of Army personnel and non-local laborers.
The encounter unfolded following specific intelligence about the presence of a terrorist in Chotigam village in south Kashmir. Acting on this information, security forces initiated a cordon and search operation in the early hours. As they approached the suspected location, the terrorist, concealed at the site, initiated indiscriminate firing. In response, the security forces effectively retaliated, leading to a confrontation resulting in the elimination of the LeT operative.
The deceased, Bilal Ahmed Bhat, hailing from Chek Cholan, was affiliated with the banned LeT outfit and had a record of involvement in multiple terror-related incidents. Notably, he was linked to the killing of local Army personnel Umer Fayaz and the hurling of a grenade at non-local laborers in Hermain, causing the tragic demise of two laborers.
Additionally, Bhat was implicated in the killing of Kashmiri Pandit Sunil Kumar Bhat and the injury of another Kashmiri Pandit, Pretimber Nath, both residents of Chotigam Shopian. Furthermore, he was associated with an attack on the local Bal Krishan alias Sonu in Chotigam.
The spokesman highlighted Bhat's role in encouraging local youth to join terrorist ranks, influencing the recruitment of 12 individuals into terrorist groups. Beyond these activities, he was also involved in the killing of a detained terrorist who led a search party during a cordon and search operation at Nowgam in 2022.
Following the encounter, the security forces recovered incriminating materials, arms, and ammunition, including an AK series rifle and three magazines, from the encounter site. These materials have been documented in case records for thorough investigation, aiming to explore any connections to additional terror-related crimes. The successful operation signifies the ongoing commitment of security forces to maintain peace and security in the region.
