In what is considered a major breakthrough for security forces, a top Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) commander Farooq Nali was killed in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district on December 19. Four other terrorists, unidentified so far, were also killed along with Nali. A top police officer said that Farooq Nali was one of the longest surviving terrorists in the valley.
Farooq Nali, he said, was involved in many terror related incidents. He was behind many attacks on civilians as well on security forces, the officer said. His death is a big achievement for police and security forces, the officer added.
At least five terrorists were killed and two security personnel injured in an encounter in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district on December 19 morning. The last encounter in Kashmir had been reported over 10 days ago and severe winter seems to be one reason for perceived inactivity.
A police official also confirmed the casualties. “Five bodies have been observed at the encounter site,” said the official.
Security forces launched a cordon and search operation at Kadder in the Behibagh area of the district on December 18 night following information about the presence of suspected terrorists there, the official said. An intelligence report received by the security forces had indicated the presence of terrorists but the exact number was not clear.
On receiving the intelligence input, a search operation was launched immediately and it turned into an encounter as the terrorists opened fire on security forces and they retaliated. There was heavy gunfire from both sides and two security forces personnel was injured in the ongoing operation.
“Bodies of five terrorists are lying in the orchards but have not been retrieved yet,” the official added.
The Kashmir Zone Police posted on X , stating, “Encounter has started at Kadder area of Kulgam district. Police and security forces are on the job. Further details shall follow.”
Indian Army’s Chinar Corps said that the terrorists opened a “heavy volume” of fire when challenged by the security forces.
OP KADER, Kulgam
On 19 Dec 24, based on specific intelligence input regarding presence of terrorists, a Joint Operation launched by #IndianArmy & @JmuKmrPolice at Kader, Kulgam. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened… pic.twitter.com/9IxVKtDZkl
— Chinar Corps🍁 – Indian Army (@ChinarcorpsIA) December 19, 2024
“OP KADER, Kulgam. Based on specific intelligence input regarding the presence of terrorists, a Joint Operation was launched by the Indian Army and J-K police at Kader, Kulgam. Suspicious activity was observed by vigilant troops and on being challenged, terrorists opened indiscriminate and heavy volumes of fire. Own troops effectively retaliated. Operation is in progress,” it said in a post on X.
