Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Apr 26: Top Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) commander and his aide were killed in Sopore area of Baramulla district in an overnight gun battle.
The duo has been identified as Abu Maaz, who was a top JeM commander and his aide Faraz alias Saifullah. Both of them were Pakistani nationals.
Inspector General of Police Kashmir, VK Bhirdi told reporters that operation against the duo was launched on a tip off by the police and Army.
“Last night, the police and local unit of the Territorial Army received a tip-off about the presence of militants in the area. While searching the area, militants opened fire, initiating the operation. The operation continued throughout the night until this afternoon, resulting in the neutralization of two militants. Arms and incriminating material were recovered from them,” he said.
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He said that the operation is a prime example of the coordination between the CRPF, Army, and police. “During such operations, police prioritize evacuating civilians to ensure their safety and proceed with proper protocol thereafter,” he added.
“We always appeal to the public to stay away from the operation site for their safety. Whenever police assistance is needed, they are always at the forefront. This success underscores the police’s ongoing efforts in countering militants. The police continue to dismantle networks of anti-national elements across the Valley,” he added.
He said the successful operation reflects the alertness of security forces ahead of the Lok Sabha polls in Kashmir. “We are committed to provide a safe and secure environment for Lok Sabha polls,” he added.
The operation was launched last evening by 22 RR of the Army, Sopore Police and 179 Battalion of CRPF. The gun battle continued during the night and in the morning two dead bodies were recovered.
A civilian identified as Farooq Ahmad Dar was injured last evening in the encounter. ”He received a bullet wound in his right shoulder and is currently being treated in a nearby Hospital. His condition is said to be stable,” an official said.
Three security force personnel were also injured in the gun battle and their condition is stated to be stable.
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