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| Massive manhunt launched for LeT terrorist behind Kulgam killings | | | Atul Sharma
Early Times Report
Jammu, Aug 2: Security forces have launched a massive counter-terror operation across South Kashmir to track down and neutralise the terrorist responsible for the targeted killing of two migrant labourers in Kulgam district, even as security has been tightened across the Valley following the attack.
According to officials, the search operation was launched immediately after terrorists opened fire on two brick kiln workers from Chhattisgarh at Kelam village in Kulgam on Friday evening. The victims, identified as Deepak Ratre (24) and Bhupendra (28), were reportedly shot after being asked their identities. Deepak died on the spot, while Bhupendra succumbed to his injuries at SKIMS Srinagar on Saturday.
Security agencies suspect the attack was carried out by a local Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist identified as Mohammad Latif Bhat, a resident of Nai Basti, Khrevan Chaddar, in Kulgam district. According to security sources, the same terrorist is also believed to have been involved in the killing of Head Constable Aashiq Hussain of the Jammu and Kashmir Police at Lal Chowk in Anantnag on July 22. However, officials are yet to issue a formal confirmation regarding his role in both incidents.
A multi-layered search operation involving the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army special forces and other security agencies is underway in Kulgam and adjoining areas. Sniffer dogs and technical surveillance are being used, while additional troops have been deployed to seal potential escape routes.
Security forces have established multiple checkpoints, intensified vehicle checking and increased surveillance across South Kashmir and other sensitive locations, including Srinagar and the National Highway, to prevent the terrorist from escaping.
Senior police and security officials, including Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, visited the attack site to review the operational strategy and the overall security situation. Several suspected over-ground workers (OGWs) have also been detained for questioning as part of the investigation, according to security sources.
Sources said Latif, around 21 years old, allegedly joined the terror ranks after going missing from his home on November 19 last year. His family had reportedly filed a missing person's report at that time.
The attack has triggered a fresh security review at the highest level. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha convened a high-level meeting with senior security officials and directed the police and security forces to launch precise and effective counter-terrorism operations to eliminate those responsible.
The Lieutenant Governor also instructed all Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police to review and strengthen the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the safety and security of migrant labourers across the Union Territory. The meeting also reviewed security arrangements for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attack and announced an ex gratia of Rs 10 lakh each from the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for the families of the two deceased labourers. The district administration has also provided immediate financial assistance of Rs 6 lakh to each bereaved family.
The targeted killing of the migrant workers is the second major terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir within ten days and has prompted security agencies to intensify anti-terror operations across the Valley. |
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