Kulgam: Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) Operations Commander Farooq Ah Bhat, who had been active in the region for the past decade, was among five militants killed in an encounter with security forces in the Kader area of Kulgam on Tuesday. The operation, which began early in the morning, culminated after hours of heavy gunfire between militants and security personnel.
Along with Farooq Ah Bhat, the slain militants have been identified as Mushtaq Itoo, son of Gh Hassan Itoo; Adil Hussain Hajjam, son of Ghulam Mohammad Hajjam; Irfan Ah Lone, son of Mohd Yaqoob Lone; and Yassir Ah Bhat, son of Javaid Ahmad Bhat. All the militants were affiliated with Hizbul Mujahideen, with Farooq being a key commander in the group for over ten years. His death is considered a major setback to the militant organization.
During the operation, two soldiers were injured and evacuated to a nearby medical facility. DIG South Kashmir, Javaid Iqbal Matto, confirmed that both soldiers are now stable and receiving treatment. Security forces have continued their efforts to clear the area, with additional reinforcements deployed to secure the region.
The encounter has raised tensions in the area, and locals have been advised to stay clear for their safety. Security forces have cordoned off the area, and the operation remains ongoing.
This successful operation is seen as a significant achievement for the security forces, dealing a major blow to Hizbul Mujahideen in the region. The operation underscores the intensified counterinsurgency efforts in the Kashmir Valley aimed at curbing militancy. Authorities assured that the situation is under control, and further updates will be provided as the operation progresses.