In a major counter-terrorism operation, three Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists were killed by Indian security forces in Shukroo forest area of Keller in Shopian, South Kashmir, on Tuesday morning. The operation, carried out jointly by the Indian Army and the Jammu & Kashmir Police, marks another successful step in India’s ongoing efforts to combat militancy in the region.
The encounter began in the early hours of the morning, following credible intelligence inputs regarding the presence of LeT operatives in the area. Security forces quickly engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, ultimately neutralizing all three militants.
The first terrorist was Shahid Kuttay, classified under Category-A, has been implicated in several high-profile incidents. He was behind the attack on German tourists in April 2024, which resulted in significant media attention. In May 2024, he was also involved in the killing of a BJP Sarpanch, further escalating tensions in the region. Additionally, Kuttay is suspected of being linked to the murder of a TA jawan in February 2025, making him a key figure of interest for security forces.
The second terrorist was Adnan Shafi Dar, listed under Category-C, is known for his involvement in the murder of a non-local labourer in October 2024. His role in this attack has placed him under scrutiny, although he is considered to be a lower-priority target compared to Category-A individuals like Kuttay.
There is also a third terrorist, whose identity is currently being verified. The security agencies are working to confirm details about this individual and their involvement in recent activities.
Lashkar-e-Taiba, a Pakistan-based militant group, has been a persistent threat in Jammu & Kashmir for years, with the aim of integrating the region with Pakistan. The group is notorious for its involvement in several deadly attacks in India, including the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and is banned by multiple countries, including India, the United States, and the United Nations.
Shopian has long been a hotspot for militant activities, with frequent clashes between security forces and insurgents. In the past, the Indian Army has conducted large-scale operations, such as Operation Sarp Vinash in 2003, to dismantle terrorist networks in the region. This latest encounter is another important success in ongoing operations to reduce militant influence in South Kashmir.
The operation comes amidst increased security measures in Jammu & Kashmir, where Indian forces are actively targeting groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Hizbul Mujahideen. The coordinated efforts of the Army and the Jammu & Kashmir Police aim to bring peace and stability to the region, though challenges remain with ongoing militant activity and occasional local unrest.
Further details regarding the operation are awaited as security forces continue their search for potential additional threats in the area. The neutralization of the three terrorists is seen as a significant blow to Lashkar-e-Taiba’s operations in the region, with officials reaffirming their commitment to eradicating terrorism in Jammu & Kashmir.
