A fierce gunfight reignited Friday morning in the Sopore region of Jammu and Kashmir’s Baramulla district as security forces continued their crackdown on terrorist activity.
This resumed confrontation followed a late-night Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) launched on Thursday, prompted by credible intelligence of terrorist presence in the area.
Early Friday, officials confirmed fresh exchanges of gunfire in Sopore’s Sagipora locality, where security personnel are engaging a group believed to include two or three terrorists.
Authorities indicated the operation was ongoing and that the terrain and layout of the area posed challenges to the forces conducting the search.
Within the past two days, two separate confrontations in northern Kashmir resulted in the deaths of two terrorists:
- One in Kupwara’s Lolab area, and
- Another in the forests of Bandipora
Security has been particularly tight following a wave of tragic attacks last month.
On 20 October, terrorists stormed a workers’ camp in Ganderbal district, killing seven workers on-site.
Shortly after, on 24 October, a convoy ambush in Gulmarg’s Botapathri area led to the deaths of three Army soldiers and two civilian porters, sparking widespread condemnation.
In response to the incidents, Jammu and Kashmir’s Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized that those responsible for the violence would face severe consequences.
Taking to X, Sinha posted, “Sacrifice of our martyrs will not go in vain,” calling for swift and decisive action against the perpetrators.
Spoke to top army officials on heinous terror attack in Butapathri Sector. Directed for swift & befitting reply to neutralise terrorists. Operation in progress. Sacrifice of our martyrs will not go in vain. Condolences to their families. Praying for speedy recovery of injured.
— Office of LG J&K (@OfficeOfLGJandK) October 24, 2024
Sopore, a town historically known as a center of separatist sentiment, has witnessed a gradual return to normalcy, especially following recent elections where residents participated in high numbers.
Officials view the re-engagement with democratic processes as a hopeful sign amid continued security challenges in the region.
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