Excelsior Correspondent
Srinagar, Apr 5: At least 8 militants have infiltrated into Kashmir this year in first two months of winter while over 150 militants are waiting on launch pads to sneak in. Army has intensified its vigil along the Line of Control (LoC) that runs through North Kashmir after fresh infiltration this year.
According to Multi Agency Centre (MAC) figures, 8 militants have infiltrated into Kashmir in winter this year. These militants mostly infiltrated from Keran sector of the LoC where the snow depth was less compared to other areas.
The figures suggested that the militants came in two groups. However, sources said that the number of militants who infiltrated this year in winter months of January and February is 12.
Sources said that these militants are still in the forests of North Kashmir after infiltration and are waiting for logistic support to get into Valley. However, security forces are keeping an eye on the possible routes which they can take for entering into Valley from the forests and want to engage them inside forests only.
The infiltration of militants into Kashmir has started early this year as compared to last year. Last year, the first infiltration reports were received in May and as per MAC figures, 114 militants infiltrated into Kashmir last year which was highest since 2014.
Sources said that over 150 militants are on launch pads mostly in Neelam Valley area of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). These militants have gathered in last two months and are waiting to infiltrate into Kashmir.
Sources said that in March this year militant groups were noticed doing reconnaissance of the LoC in Doodniyal, Hathlanga and Athmuqam areas of the LoC six times. However, no infiltration was reported in March this year so far.
After the reports of early infiltration this year, Army has intensified its vigil along the LoC. The patrols have been intensified so that any further infiltration along the LoC is stopped. Army is conducting regular patrols so as to prevent any infiltration attempts.
Sources said that the repair of the counter-infiltration fence that gets damaged in winter due to snow and avalanches has already been started. The army top brass has directed for the repair of the fence in the areas where snow has melted.
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