By Tehelka Web Desk
A massive search operation by security forces in south Kashmir’s Shopian district entered its second day on Sunday, with two suspected militants believed to be hiding in dense orchards in the Meemandar area.
The operation, involving the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), resumed after an overnight pause. Security forces have strengthened the cordon around the area where the suspected militants were first detected through surveillance cameras on Friday.
Officials said the gunfight began after the militants allegedly opened fire on an Army team that was moving towards the area, prompting the troops to retaliate.
Additional Army personnel have been deployed to block possible escape routes through the thick orchards. Security forces have also illuminated the area to reduce the advantage provided by the dense summer foliage, which limits visibility and makes surveillance difficult.
By Saturday evening, security personnel had cleared four villages while maintaining a tight cordon around the remaining area of operation.
Officials believe the trapped militants are residents of Kulgam district in south Kashmir.
The operation comes amid heightened security arrangements for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra and is the first reported gunfight in Kashmir since an encounter in Kulgam in October last year.
Officials said the operation also highlights the growing use of surveillance systems and intelligence inputs to track militant movement and launch focused operations, reducing the need for prolonged search exercises.
