Security forces have busted a terrorist hideout in the upper reaches of Billawar in Kathua district, recovering two hand grenades. The operation was carried out on Wednesday following the disclosure of an alleged overground worker.
The Chenab Times has learned that the hideout was unearthed based on information provided by Haji Latief, a resident of Rabagh, who was arrested on July 2. Officials stated that Latief is currently facing charges related to facilitating the infiltration of over a dozen militants from across the border over a period of several years. He is undergoing joint interrogation by the police and other security agencies.
During his questioning, Latief reportedly revealed that he had maintained continuous contact with militant handlers operating from across the international border. This information led security forces to the discovered hideout.
In a separate but related development on Wednesday, border security forces apprehended a suspicious individual from the border village of Bobiya in the Hiranagar sector. The individual identified himself as Prem, aged 45. He was subsequently handed over to the local police for further questioning and investigation into his activities and presence in the sensitive border area.
The timely busting of the hideout and the seizure of the explosives are seen as a significant success for security forces in their ongoing efforts to maintain peace and thwart any potential militant activities in the Jammu region. The recovery of grenades indicates a possible plan by militant groups to carry out attacks in the area. The interrogation of Latief is expected to provide further intelligence regarding the network of militant support and infiltration routes operating in the region.
Authorities have intensified security surveillance and patrolling along the border areas of Kathua and adjoining districts. The investigation into Prem’s activities is also underway to ascertain his background and any potential links to subversive elements. The incident underscores the continued efforts by militant organisations to disrupt peace in the region and the persistent vigilance of security forces in countering such threats.
The district of Kathua, situated along the international border, has historically been a sensitive area, with security forces frequently engaged in operations to dismantle militant infrastructure and prevent the movement of militants and weapons. The successful operation in Billawar highlights the effectiveness of intelligence gathering and inter-agency coordination in combating militancy in the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
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The Chenab Times News Desk
