Incidents and Statements involving Lashkar-e-Taiba : 2016

Date

Nature of incident

January 11

Zakura / Srinagar

Pantha Chowk / Srinagar

At least six persons including two Policemen were injured during clashes in the outskirts of Srinagar in Pantha Chowk area, as Police fired scores of tear smoke shells to disperse the protesters who had blocked the Srinagar-Jammu National Highway over the killing of top LeT 'commander' Sajjad Ahmad Bhat on January 11 in Zakura area of Srinagar. The mourners attempted to hold the funeral along Srinagar-Jammu National Highway but a large contingent of Police intercepted the procession holding body of the militant commander and resorted to heavy teargas shelling. Police fired tear gas on youth who retaliated by pelting stones, triggering clashes. A Police official said two persons received injuries in the clashes while at least 4 protesters were also injured. A complete shutdown was observed in Pantha Chowk, Pampore, Zewan and adjoining areas against the Sajjad's killing.

Bijbehara / Anantnag District

Constable Shakoor Ahmed Parrey fled away with four AK-47 rifles from SDPO in Bijbehara in Anantnag District and is said to have joined LeT militant outfit. Shakoor, a resident of Kundalan in Shopian District, was posted as a PSO to SDPO Bijbehara, Irshad Ahmad Bhat, in Bijbehara area of Anantnag District. Shakoor fled along with the rifles with two more youth - Gazi Fayaz Dar (20) and Aqib Bashir, both the residents of Kundalan in Shopian. Reports said that Shakoor didn't report to duty since January 13 and when the room in SDPO office where he was living with his colleagues was checked, four AK-47 rifles were found missing. Reports said that all the three have joined LeT. Shakoor had links with the militancy in the past and was appointed as SPO and later promoted as constable.

Budgam District

SFs foiled an attempt by LeT militant outfit to carry out attacks on the occasion of Republic Day (January 26) by arresting a LeT militant along with arms and ammunition in the orchards of Qasermulla Chadoora village in Budgam District. "This suspect person was apprehended by the security forces and on searching his bag one AK-47 with two magazines, 60 rounds and one grenade were recovered", a senior security official said. The official identified the militant as Basharat Ahmad Shah alias Furkan of LeT resident of Nillora, Litter in South Kashmir District of Pulwama. "He was a close accomplice of Wasim Hef alias Osama and Majid Zargar alias Talha of LeT.

Srinagar

Terrorist outfit LeT is recruiting "vulnerable young men in Pakistan," as part of a larger conspiracy to wage war against India, especially in the State of J&K, a chargesheet filed by the NIA in the Udhampur terrorist attack case has said. The NIA said the LeT "recruited these impressionable young men and put them through various training regimes with the twin objectives of radicalising their worldview and providing them with 'military' skills and they were then illegally pushed into India to join their colleagues and commit terrorist acts." The outfit recruited "guides" to help "trained terrorists" infiltrate into India through Helen Det, a launch pad being operated by the outfit in PoK near the LoC, says the chargesheet pertaining to the attack on a BSF bus in Udhampur on August 5, 2015, in J&K.

Srinagar

Nine LeT cadres were named in a charge sheet filed by NIA in terror attack case in Udhampur, 2015. The charge sheet has been filed against the accused Mohammed Naveed alias Usman, Khursheed Ahmed Bhat alias Khursheed Alam Bhat, Showkat Ahmed Bhat, Shabzar Ahmed Bhat, Fayaz Ahmed Ittoo alias Fayaz Khar, Khursheed Ahmed Ittu, Fayaz Ahmed Ashwar alias Setha, Ashiq Hussain Bhat alias Ubaida and Abu Noman.

Kupwara District

A militant was killed in an encounter that broke out between militants and SFs in Lolab area in Kupwara District, after SFs launched an operation. Police said that acting on specific information about presence of at least two-three militants of LeT in Lohar Mohalla, Dardpora in the frontier district, 28 RR of Army and SOG Kupwara launched the joint operation. Reports said that during the cordon, militants fired on the SFs leading to a gun battle in which one militant was killed and one AK-47 rifle was recovered from the dead militant.

Kupwara District

Two LeT militants were killed during an encounter in North Kashmir's Lolab area in Kupwara District. The militants have been identified as Abu Mushtaq Hyder and Abu Rashid Suliaman Qadri. Bodies of both the militants were retrieved and two AK-47 rifles, 15 magazines, hundreds of bullets, 4 wireless sets, three grenades, one pistol, two GPS devices, one Thuraya, one matrix sheet, clothes, medicine and ration were recovered from them.

Kupwara District

Two persons were injured in Lolab area in Kupwara District, after violent stone-throwing clashes erupted between locals and SFs over the killing of three LeT militants. The clashes erupted soon after the funeral-in-absentia for two militants as locals resorted to massive stone-pelting on Lalpora Police Station. The residents of Dardpora and Lalpora areas offered the absentia funeral at Jindyal village as Police didn't handover bodies of two militants to them.

Bandipora District

In a surgical operation in Hajan area in Bandipora District, SFs eliminated three LeT militants including their 'commander' in a fierce gun battle. DIG North Kashmir, Garib Dass, said, they had information about their movement for last several days and SFs were tracking them. He said that these militants were on their way to South Kashmir to carry out subversive activities there. SFs recovered three bodies of the militants, three AK-47 rifles, one UBGL and large number of IEDs and ammunition from the encounter site. The DIG said that all these three militants are Pakistani nationals and were hiding in North Kashmir forests for several months and were on their way to South Kashmir. One of them is said to be LeT commander. However, they have not been identified yet.

Pulwama District

A SPO turned militant, identified as Raqib Bashir was killed in a gun battle at Godipora area in Pulwama District of Jammu and Kashmir. A joint team of SFs cordoned off Veerbagh village of Godipora after receiving input about presence of three militants of the LeT in the area. As the SFs conducted searches in the area, militants fired upon the search parties, triggering a gunfight in which the troops gunned down a militant. Raqib was an SPO and had deserted the Police last year (2015) to join LeT. He was believed to be responsible for attack on CRPF in Arwani village of Bijbehara in Anantnag District last week in which two CRPF men were injured.

Five militants of LeT including their 'commander' and two Army personnel, identified as Naik Shinde Shankar Chandrabhan (34) and Gunner Sahdev Maruti More (26), were killed and two Army personnel including an officer were injured during a fierce encounter in Chowkibal forest area of North Kashmir's Kupwara District. The encounter that started last evening (February 12) continued throughout the night and in the morning, troops killed five militants who were holed up in the house of Ghulam Mohammad Wani. Sources said that seven militants infiltrated during the intervening night of February 8 and 9 into Zonreshi forests of Chowkibal from Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). As the troops started cordon-and-search operation, militants hiding in a house fired on troops leading to an encounter. SFs recovered 5 AK-47 rifles, two UBGL throwers, seven UBGL grenades, 13 hand grenades, 25 magazines and large quantity of AK ammunition, pouches, dry fruits, sleeping bags, snow axe and dry fruits besides other war like stores.

Two civilians including a woman and one LeT militant were killed and over three dozen others were injured during an encounter and clashes that broke out in Kakpora village in Pulwama District of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). Police, CRPF and Army 50 RR cordoned off Khanday Mohalla in Kakpora area after they received information about presence of three LeT militants in the village. One militant Adil Ahmad Wagay of Bandipora, Pulwama, was killed in the encounter with SFs while two other militants managed to escape. Protests erupted during the gun battle in which two persons Danish Farooq Mir son of Farooq Ahmad Mir of Ratnipora, Pulwama, and the woman as Shaista Hameed daughter of Abdul Hameed of Lelhar village were killed. Danish, 19, was studying Electrical Engineering at Islamic University of Science and Technology in Awantipora, while the 22-year-old Shaista was pursuing MA Urdu. The youth protested near the encounter site in Lelhar village and security forces fired at the protesters as it turned violent.

Security agencies will approach Twitter India to block all accounts having links with LeT founder and JuD 'chief' Hafiz Saeed and which are often found to be spreading venom against India. There are several accounts which have links with Saeed and it has become necessary to shut these down as quickly as possible, officials said. "We are approaching Twitter India which in turn will tell its US-based parent company to deactivate the accounts. Hopefully, it will be done soon," an unnamed official said. Earlier, Twitter had blocked several accounts operated by Saeed, following requests from security agencies in different countries, including India and the US. However, such accounts again cropped up after a gap of several months.

Pulwama District

Army killed three militants in the EDI building in the Pampore area of Pulwama District after 48-hour long intense gun fight, raising the death toll to nine. As reported earlier, six persons, including three Army three personnel, including two captains, two CRPF troopers and a gardener were killed and 13 CRPF personnel, including an officer, were injured in the attack which commenced on February 21. While three persons, two CRPF personnel and the gardener were killed on February 21, three Army persons were killed on February 22. SATP had earlier reported that four persons were killed in the attack. Sources claimed that it was a group of LeT militants who carried out the attack and identified them as Abu Saad, Abu Ukasha and Abu Walid. Army recovered three AK-47 rifles, 15 magazines, 200 AK-rounds, five UBGL grenades, one UBGL launcher, and three pouches besides war like stores from the slain militants.

Pulwama District

A shutdown was observed in several parts of South Kashmir against the killing of three LeT militants in Pampore in Pulwama District during which people staged violent protests at multiple places and offered funeral-in-absentia for the slain trio. Barring stray incidents of stone-pelting and clashes in which three protesters were injured, the situation across the South Kashmir remained peaceful.

Pulwama District

SFs killed Abu Ukasha, a top 'commander' of the LeT, and his associate, Abu Hafiz, in an encounter at Wadhakpora in Awantipora area in Pulwama District. After a specific input received by the SOG of Jammu and Kashmir Police, Srinagar, about presence of 11 militants including top leadership of LeT, SFs launched searches at Chandipora, Goripora and Wadhakpora villages in the District. SFs cordoned off vast area and had a fierce gun battle with the LeT militants at Wadhakpora in Awantipora area in which two militants were killed. After the encounter SFs recovered two AK-47 rifles, four magazines and two pouches from the encounter site.

Pulwama District

SFs have intercepted a phone call which indicated that LeT, based in South Kashmir is planning fidayeen attack along the National Highway on SFs in Jammu and Kashmir. They said that LeT has already conducted recce of an Army camp near Jawahar Tunnel, CRPF 24th battalion at Jawahar Tunnel and one more security installation in South Kashmir along the highway. After 'divisional commander' of the LeT, Abu Dujana, and his associates fled from cordon in South Kashmir's Pulwama District, SFs have intensified operations in the area as they have inputs that they are planning a fidayeen attack in Kashmir along the Srinagar Jammu National Highway.

Kupwara District

SFs killed two LeT militants in an encounter in Handwara town in Kupwara District. SOG of Handwara Police and 21 RR of Army cordoned off the Waderbala area of Handwara in the District after the Police got specific information about presence of a group of three LeT militants in the village. As the Army laid cordon around the village when militants opened fire on the SFs resulting in the encounter. SFs shot dead two militants in a nullah, while one of the militants managed to escape into nearby forests. SFs conducted searches and recovered two dead bodies of militants, two AK 47 rifles, six AK magazines, four UBGLs, 46 AK rounds, two radio sets, two maps, two pouches and a diary from the site of the encounter. Sources said that the two killed militants were part of the five militants of LeT who were killed by SFs in Chowkibal forest area of North Kashmir's Kupwara District on February 13 this year.

Srinagar

The number of militants, ready to infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir, at the launch pads across the LoC in PoK has doubled since last one month as this year they are planning infiltration ahead of summer. Sources said that in this year's winters, 50-70 militants were at the launch pads near 400 kilometer long LoC in PoK ready for infiltration into Kashmir. They said that the number of militants at the launch pads have over the past one month increased and gone up to over 150. These militants are in 12 launch pads that are in PoK near the LoC. Sources said that as this winter there was very less snowfall along the LoC in Kashmir, militants mostly belonging to LeT, have started concentrating in the launch pads near the LoC for infiltration.

Srinagar

A LeT over ground worker, identified as Obaid Tariq Untoo and his associate Yawar Muzaffar Tanga of Sopore were arrested by the Police in Srinagar. They are being questioned.

Pulwama District

A LeT militant, identified as Owais Ahmad Malik, surrendered before the Police in Pulwama District. Malik, a resident of Hakripora in Pulwama District was a LeT militant and was active for the last one month. Police is questioning him about the LeT and their plans.

Kupwara District

Four militants of the LeT have been trapped by SFs in Dardpora forest area of Lolab in Kupwara District. Army's 28 RR and Police cordoned off forest area near Jindyal hamlet in Dardpora area of Lolab in Kupwara. Militants opened fire on the SFs but managed to escape. More troops were rushed and they have been trapped in dense forest area.

Kupwara District

A militant of LeT was killed during an encounter in North Kashmir Lolab forests in Kupwara District, while SFs have launched massive searches against his colleagues who fled from security cordon. Army recovered body of a militant from Dardpora forests during searches along with an AK-47 rifle. The militant is believed to have been killed in the gun battle during the night.

Pulwama District

Stone-pelting clashes between youths and SFs erupted in Lelhar and Kakapora areas in Pulwama District during a search operation launched by SFs following an input about the presence of LeT militants at Lelhar. As the search operation was underway, local youths' pelted stones on SFs and created hurdles in the operation which was retaliated by using mild force against the stone-throwers. Later, the clashes also erupted at Kakapora continued till late evening and many protesters sustained injuries. There was however no critical injuries to anyone.

Three LeT militants were killed in an encounter with SFs at Lolab in Kupwara District. Acting on specific information about the presence of 3-4 militants in Putshahi area of Lolab in the District, SFs cordoned off the area and began a search operation. As the search operation was going on, militants who were hiding fired upon the SFs resulting in the encounter. Two militants have been killed in the operation; however, the identity of the slain militants could not be immediately ascertained, but were believed to be Pakistanis. Three AK 47 rifles, three UBGLs, 387 AK 47 rounds, 10 AK 47 magazines, three pouches, three bags, three water proof Trousers and 40 biscuit packets were recovered from the encounter site.

A group of militants including LeT 'divisional commander', Abu Dujana, managed to flee from the SFs cordon in Pulwama District. Acting on a tip off, a joint team of Army's 55 RR, SOG and CRPF launched cordon-and-search operation at Bulbul Bagh area of Malwar village of Zadur in the District. Soon after the joint team of forces reached near the suspected spot the militants hiding in the area opened fire upon them and managed to break the forces cordon. As the SFs intensified the combing operation in Zadur and its adjacent areas to trace out the fleeing militants, the locals in large numbers came out and clashed with the Police and paramilitary forces to help the fleeing militants. The Police and CRPF personnel who were deployed in the area chased the youth and fired tear smoke shells to disperse them. However, they hurled stones on them leading to clashes. SFs recovered 4 UBGL grenades, 3 AK magazines, 90 AK rounds and one pouch.

Kupwara District

Army launched a massive operation in Kupwara forests in Kupwara District, after reports of infiltration of a militant group in the area from PoK. Army received inputs that at least 10 militants of LeT have infiltrated into the forests of Budnambal during the intervening night of April 18 and 19. Sources said that for last four days, Army is conducting massive combing operations in the forest area so that these militants don't come out of the forests and are tackled there only. Sources said that the Budnambal search operation has been closed, while Army's 28-RR, 18-RR and SOG of Police, Kupwara, has launched another operation against them in Patushai, Kantpora and Shumbreyal forest areas.

Kupwara District

One militant was killed in an encounter between SFs and militants in Zunrishi Chowkibal forest area in Kupwara District. A senior Police officer said that a LeT militant was killed during an encounter started after SFs launched a cordon and search operation in the Zunrishi forest area following specific information about of 5-6 militants of LeT hiding in Zunrishi forest area. They said that one militant was killed whose identity is yet to be established, while other members fled under the cover of darkness. More troops have been rushed to the area and massive forest area has been cordoned off to track the members of the group.

Srinagar

Mirwaiz Umar Farooq led APHC-M, led a large rally on the eve of the assassination anniversary of Molvi Mohammad Farooq, in Old City in Srinagar after Friday prayers. Soon after the Friday prayers were over, Mirwaiz took out a rally from historical Jamia Masjid in Nowhatta which was attended by large number of people and his party workers. The rally passed through Gojwara, Islamia College and concluded at Hawal where Mirwaiz attended the flag raising ceremony of his party and paid respects to his father and other people killed on May 21, 1990. Though the rally remained peaceful but some youths waved flags of IS and LeT. Shortly after the conclusion of rally, hundreds of youths resorted to heavy stone-pelting on SFs at Saraf Kadal ensuing clashes between the two sides. The Police retaliated by firing dozens of teargas shells and pepper grenades but the stone-throwers re-grouped and continued throwing stones.

May 24

Srinagar

Police launched massive search operation against the assailants and detained around two dozen former militants, OGWs of militant outfits, suspected persons to question them about the attack in Srinagar on May 23. However, none of them had knowledge about the attacks and Police may round up more people for questioning from various parts of city in next few days as part of investigations. In the meantime, Police appealed the landlords in Srinagar to allow only verified tenants in their properties. The Police will begin verification of all the tenants and labourers who put up in Srinagar city to prevent militants from making hideouts in Srinagar city. The recruitment of three youth from Srinagar city by militants is a major worry for security agencies as it has led to Srinagar city becoming target of militant attacks. Three youth Merajudin Bangroo, Danish and Mugais have reportedly joined militancy this month only. Bangroo has reportedly joined LeT, while, Danish and Mugais, the HM outfit.

Non-Violent

May 25

Jammu region & Kashmir valley

At least 17 groups of militants have become active across the LoC opposite twin border Districts of Rajouri and Poonch in Jammu region and Kupwara District of Kashmir valley with a view to infiltrate into the State to create disturbances even as the MAC, set up by the UMHA has maintained that 18 militants have infiltrated this year so far. Official sources said that the credible inputs available with security and Intelligence agencies revealed that at least 17 groups of militants have been observed across the LoC in J&K, who were fully geared to infiltrate into the State but high alertness being displayed by the troops hasn't allowed them to succeed in their task. As per the inputs, there were two groups of militants waiting across LoC in Poonch, three opposite Mendhar, four across Rajouri and two opposite Nowshera. Two groups of militants were stationed across the IB in Samba. In Kashmir valley, there had been specific reports of two groups each waiting across Keran and Kupwara but the number could grow due to fast melting of snow in the summer. All these groups belonged to LeT, HM and JeM outfits.

Statement

Anantnag District

Police have circulated posters of two LeT militants in Anantnag District, who carried out attack in the town on June 4, in which two cops including an officer was killed and started a massive hunt against them. Police have identified these militants Junaid Ahmad Mattoo (19), resident of Khudwani in Kulgam District and another militant as Ali, a foreigner. Mattoo has joined LeT in September, 2015. He is seen standing near the car, another one, Ali, is seen carrying a bag and walking upto the vehicle, Police added. Mattoo and Ali after arriving at the spot take out rifles from the bag. Ali is seeing firing at Police and then the two run away. They killed ASI Bashir Ahmad and Constable Reyaz Ahmad at Anantnag Bus Stand.

Khudwani area / Kulgam District

Police arrested two persons including brother of a militant in connection with an attack that left two Policemen including an officer dead at Khudwani area of Kulgam District. The arrested youth have been identified as Waseem Ahmad Lone and Parvez Ahmad Mattoo. Parvez Ahmad Mattoo is the brother of LeT militant, Junaid Ahmad.

Two militants of LeT were killed and two Policemen were injured in an encounter that broke out at Newa area in Pulwama District. On a tip off about the presence of a group of militants in Malwari village of Newa, a joint operation was launched by Army's 55 RR, 183 CRPF and SOG Pulwama. Militants hiding inside the village opened fire on SFs as they were conducting searches of the village. They tried to break the cordon and flee but were killed by the SFs. Two Policemen sustained minor splinter injuries during the encounter. An AK 47 rifle, 4 magazines, 56 rounds, one pistol, 1 pistol magazine, 2 pistol rounds and other war like stores were recovered from the encounter site. The two militants were identified as Manzoor Ahmad resident of Gandi Bagh Kakapora and another was identified as Abu Ayaan, a Pakistani national.

SFs killed a militant of LeT in Wuderbala in Handwara forest area in the frontier District of Kupwara. On a tip off, army's 21 RR and SOG of Handwara Police cordoned off Poth Mohalla in Wuderbala area of Handwara in the frontier District after reports that two militants are hiding in the village. These two militants had come to the village to get supplies for the militants hiding in the forests. As the SFs cordoned off the area militants opened fire on them leading to a gun battle in which one militant was killed and his associate managed to flee. One Army personnel was injured in the gun battle.

Baramulla District

Army has launched massive operation in Gulmarg sector in Baramulla District after inputs that 6-7 militants of LeT have infiltrated into the area few days back. Army has laid ambushes at several places for last few days but so far they have not been able to trace out the group.

Poonch District

Three Pakistani militants affiliated to LeT, who were trying to infiltrate into the Indian Territory from LoC in Sabjian sector of Poonch District were killed by the Army. Bodies of all three militants have been recovered from the LoC. However, their identity hasn't been established so far but it seems that all of them were Pakistanis affiliated with LeT. Army recovered three AK-47 rifles, 11 magazines, three pouches, two grenades, two rucksacks, medicines, dry fruit and food from them. The medicines had Pakistan marking, which clearly indicated that they had come from Pakistan with intentions to create trouble in Jammu.

The NIA took over the custody of Pakistani militant of LeT, who was arrested by Police two days ago. A team of NIA visited Handwara where Police handed over Pakistani militant Bahadur Ali (22) alias Saifullah of Lahore Pakistan to them. The militant was arrested from Yahama village in Mawar area of Qalamabad, Handwara in Kupwara District on July 25. The militant was part of 4 member group that was hiding in the forests of Handwara since last month. It had infiltrated into Kashmir in June this year. Sources said that the group was being tracked for over a week before Saifullah was arrested. The militant told interrogators that he was trained along with other LeT militants in a training camp in PoK. He also revealed that before infiltrating, he along with others received fresh training in handling of weapons, map reading and operating GPS device. The militant revealed that they were told by their handlers to hide in the forests in North Kashmir and were waiting for further directions. He further revealed that large number of LeT militants are receiving training in PoK and are waiting for infiltration on launching pads.

NIA questioned Bahadur Ali alias Saifullah, a Pakistani militant LeT, about involvement of his group in spreading violence in Jammu and Kashmir. A fourth-class dropout Ali, who hails from Jahama village of Raiwind in Lahore, was arrested from Yahama village in Mawar area of Qalamabad, Handwara, in North Kashmir on July 25. The Army had recovered three AK-47 rifles, two pistols and Indian INR 23,000 from his possession. Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju called Ali a "very good catch" and said his arrest will lead to many successes. He said the arrested militant would be "big handle for us".

Lethpora / Pulwama District

Thousands of people attended the funeral of Farooq Ahmad Kuchey, who was killed in Lethpora area of Pulwama District on August 2, on NH by the security guard of ADC Ramban Babu Ram. Thousands of people attended a massive protest rally at Arwani in Bijbehara. The gathering was addressed by a local militant of LeT Lateef Kachroo. Protests and clashes were reported from Shopian, Kupwara, Bandipora, Sopore, Budgam and Anantnag.

Srinagar

A senior Army officer said that around 300 militants are waiting on the launching pads in PoK ready to infiltrate into Kashmir before onset of winter. "These militants are making desperate attempts to infiltrate as security forces have killed large number of their members in Kashmir valley this year", he said. This year SFs killed 92 militants so far which is highest in recent years. But the infiltration has also gone up and according to MAC figures, this year till June, 56 militants, mostly belonging to LeT, have infiltrated into Kashmir while last year the number was 35 for the whole year.

Srinagar

The NIA claimed that the turmoil in Kashmir was being orchestrated by Pakistan-based LeT and that it was gathering further evidence of the terror group's role in fuelling the unrest, triggered by the encounter killing of a militant leader. Armed with a confessional video of a captured LeT militant, IG of NIA Sanjeev Singh said that since the summer this year, the banned outfit, with the "help of Pakistani forces deployed on the border", pushed heavily armed terrorists into India with the direction to mix with the local people, create disturbance, and attack Police and SFs. The video shows Bahadur Ali (21), a resident of Raiwind in Lahore, spilling beans about LeT's role in the disturbances. He is also shown speaking about the LeT's sophisticated communication network and assistance rendered to it by the Pakistani army. Ali, who was arrested from Yahama village in Handwara in Kupwara District on July 25, was in one of the groups allegedly instructed to take advantage of the current situation and throw grenades at the SFs by mixing with the protesters. During communications with Ali, Alpha-3 (a communication centre in PoK) told that the LeT cadres had been successful in fuelling large-scale agitation in Kashmir after Eid subsequent to the killing of HM 'commander' Burhan Wani on July 8. "Further investigation is continuing on the disclosure of Bahadur Ali regarding his role in the present unrest in Kashmir," Singh said.

Ali said he was recruited into JUD, an organisation headed by Hafiz Saeed, aged 14, by a close aide of the 26/11 mastermind, and given the task of collecting funds for Jihad in his village. Moulana Abdur Rahim, who belonged to the LeT, also headed by Saeed, radicalised him by showing films of alleged atrocities on Muslims in different parts of the world including India and exhorting youth to undertake Jihad to establish Islamic rule there. He also served in the office of a LeT-affiliated NGO Falah-e-Insaniat Foundation (FIF) at Lahore. Before being sent to India, Ali underwent three training courses - 'Daura-e-Tulba' (basic training for 15 days) at Manshera in the year 2013, 'Daura-e-Aam' (21 days of basic arms training) at Aksa camp near Muzaffarabad in 2014 followed by month-long 'Daura-e-Khas' at Tabook camp near Muzaffarabad in the summer of 2016, during which he was trained in use of sophisticated arms and field craft. He said there are 30 to 50 trainees at any given time in each course from different parts of Pakistan including Pushto speaking men who are sent to Afghanistan to fight the allied forces, the NIA said. "The In-charge of the control centre at Muzaffarabad whom Bahadur Ali had also met before infiltrating into India was a man named Waleed," Singh added.

New Delhi

Strongly rebuffing Pakistan on Kashmir, India said it has no "locus standi" in the matter and its attempt to internationalise the issue will not "whitewash" cross-border terrorism supported by it. It also asserted that the recent arrest of LeT terrorist Bahadur Ali is yet another proof of Pakistan's continued involvement in cross-border terrorism and infiltration into India, despite several assurances that it will not allow its territory to be used for terrorism against any other country. "Pakistan has no locus standi in addressing any aspect of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, which is an internal matter of India, except to put an end to all cross-border terrorism, infiltration and support and instigation to terrorism and violence against India. "We are in touch with important interlocutors bilaterally as well as multilaterally to put across the correct picture. Let me also say it does not matter how many letters are written, it will still not whitewash cross-border terrorism," External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Vikas Swarup said.

Jammu and Kashmir

Four Districts of south Kashmir - Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam and Anantnag - have descended into anarchy with hundreds and thousands holding 'azadi' rallies almost daily in absence of an effective Police Force. Out of 36 Police Stations in these Districts, only three -one each in Pulwama, Rajpora and Awantipora - are functioning with any semblance of efficacy. Barring these, all Police have evacuated Police Stations since frenzied mobs began their attacks, setting a number of these ablaze. Sources said the Police department has "for the time being" shut down dozens of Police Stations. Most have turned into empty shells now guarded by the Army and CRPF. CRPF personnel are no longer visible in south Kashmir. In places like Aishmuqam in Anantnag, sources said they had been instructed to remain mute spectators while crowds rule the streets. Scores of youth have joined the militants in Tral, where organised training camps are being run by top LeT and JeM 'commanders' to turn out jihadis, a senior Police officer said.

Baramulla District

Army and Police trapped a militant group belonging to LeT in the forest area in Baramulla District. A senior Police officer said that Army's 52nd RR, 19thMahar and SOG of J&K Police cordoned off village Banday Bala in Sultanpora area of Chandoosa in Baramulla District after tip off about presence of five militants hiding in a house. As the SFs cordoned off the village Banday Bala, militants hiding in the house fired on the Army party that was laying siege around the house. One Army jawan was injured in the firing. Army also retaliated leading to a brief gun battle but the militants managed to flee from the house towards nearby woods. Sources said that this group of five militants belonging to LeT infiltrated into Kashmir through Boniyar area of Uri sector of Baramulla District in the last week of June.

Jammu and Kashmir

The LeT has hailed Pakistan for sending a parliamentarian on a diplomatic mission over Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir

The infiltration of militants into Kashmir valley has gone up by over 100 per cent this year despite Army being on high alert along 400 kilometres long LoC in North Kashmir. According to MAC figures, 72 militants, mostly belonging to LeT, have infiltrated into Kashmir this year till July while last year the number was 35 for the whole year. However, a senior Police officer said that it is a conservative estimate and as per the ground reports the number could be double than that of the official figure. He said some of the groups, who have recently infiltrated into Kashmir, are yet to come under SFs radar. The security agencies gave two reasons for the increased infiltration this year. One, Pakistan wants to step up militancy in Kashmir and second, this year the SFs achieved major success against militants by killing 102 of them so far which is highest in recent years. Sources said that there are more than 40 training camps operating in PoK with 19 of them most active and are imparting map reading, GPS use, weight, weapon and tactical training to the militants who are sent to launching pads along the LoC for infiltration. These training camps are at Skardu, Kel, Karko, Dullu, Titwal, Chakoti, Kotli, Dehri, Barhal Mirpur and Chaprai. Army said that over 200 highly trained militants are waiting on these launch pads for infiltration and Army is on heightened alert along the LoC to foil their attempts. The Army patrols along and beyond the LoC fence have been intensified to foil infiltration attempts by militants who are conducting recce daily. Army has also intensified search operation in the forests of North Kashmir so as to tackle the infiltrated militants there only and prevent them from coming out to the populated areas.

Baramulla District

Army's 46 RR and SOG Baramulla, conducted searches in Hyder Mohalla Khawaja Bagh area of Baramulla District after they received inputs about presence of militants in the area. Army's 52 RR and SOG Baramulla in the meantime continued its operations against a group of five LeT militants in Sultanpora Kandi area of Baramulla District. The group had slipped out of security cordon last week.

Jammu and Kashmir

The JeM had carried out multiple terror strikes in Jammu and Kashmir but none were as audacious as the Uri attack in Baramulla District on September 18. After the Uri strike, JeM has joined the league of top terror groups like LeT and Al Qaeda, especially as the attack followed the one on the Pathankot airbase on January 2, 2016. In contrast, the LeT, considered the biggest active terror group in the subcontinent, has failed to demonstrate its striking capability post Mumbai 26/11 as it has come under various international sanctions. Its groups of militants who infiltrated into India recently were either killed or arrested. JeM has been constantly upping its ante inside the valley after 2012 under the banner of 'Afzal Guru Squad.' Set up in 2000 by Maulana Masood Azhar - released by the NDA Government, after the hijacking of Indian Airlines flight to Kandahar 1999 - JeM was once isolated within Pakistan but appears to have got a new lease of life including support from the ISI. The group was also responsible for an attack on an Army camp in Tangdar area Kupwara District in November last year.

Baramulla District

The four terrorists who attacked the Army base in Uri sector in Baramulla District on September 18, killing 18 soldiers, belonged to LeT, and managed to sneak in by cutting the perimeter fencing of the highly-guarded army installation at two places, investigations have shown. In an indication that the terrorists were well-versed of the layout of the army base close to the LoC, the assailants locked the cooking room and store from outside to prevent the soldiers from leaving before setting them afire, sources privy to the probe said. The investigators are not ruling out "insider help" to the terrorists in view of the precise nature of the actions undertaken by the intruders once inside the army base, the sources said, adding the attackers first cut the perimeter fencing at two places. After locking the cooking room and store, two of the terrorists started moving towards the officers' quarters within the base but they were gunned down before they could inflict any further damage, they said. The two GPS sets recovered from the slain militants were damaged during the attack and have been handed over to the NIA, which is probing the case.

Jammu District

The BSF arrested a Pakistani militant from Pargwal sector of Akhnoor tehsil, when he was trying to negotiate border fencing to cross over into the Indian Territory. During preliminary questioning, he has revealed his identity as Abdul Qayoom (32) son of Bhag Ali, resident of Pul Bajuan village in Sialkot of Pakistan. He was in possession of one dual SIM Nokia mobile handset. An official handout issued by DIG of BSF Dharmendra Pareek said the militant has revealed that in 2004, he underwent "Daura e- Aam" militant training with LeT outfit at Mansera training camp in Muzaffarabad in PoK. Thereafter, he actively worked for LeT and remained associated with distribution of Jihadi Literature and magazine like Gajwa and Jarar etc as well as collection of fund for the outfit.

Jammu District

Sialkot-based Abdul Qayum who has claimed to be the former security personnel of LeT 'chief' Hafiz Saeed, was arrested from the Pargwal region of Akhnoor sector in Jammu by the BSF. A mobile phone and two sim cards were recovered from him.

Jammu and Kashmir

The Government believes at least 250 terrorists belonging to three Pakistan-based terror groups are active in the Kashmir valley and they could target SFs to 'avenge' the surgical strikes carried out by the Army across the LoC. Quoting intelligence inputs, top Government sources said that most of the 250 terrorists belonging to LeT, JeM and HM had infiltrated before the surgical strikes and were hiding. They said the terrorists have been given clear instructions by their handlers across the border to target SFs to "avenge" the surgical strikes. The central Government has asked SFs operating in J&K to maintain maximum alertness and take all precautions to foil any attempt by the militants to target them. Sources said even though vigil along the LoC as well as the IB was intensified, there were gaps in many places due to the difficult topography. Army, BSF, CRPF and J&K Police have also stepped up search for the terrorists. It is believed that some 100 terrorists are waiting across the border to infiltrate. SFs have killed more than 40 terrorists in the last one month while they were trying to infiltrate or attack the bases of Army and other SFs. Since the attack on the Army's Uri camp which killed 19 soldiers, terrorists have made several attempts in Baramulla, Pampore and Handwara. According to sources, LeT suffered maximum damage in the cross-LoC surgical strikes carried out by the Army with radio intercepts indicating that around 20 of its militants were killed.

Pampore District

Two LeT militants holed up in the EDI hostel building in Pampore District were killed by the SFs. "The operation at Pampore is still going on. The concrete structure is posing a difficulty to the army personnel in bringing it down," the officials said. SFs have cordoned off the building of EDI since October 10, after three militants barged inside the complex with the aim of engaging the law enforcing agencies. The operation has been now going on for 52 hours as most parts of the concrete building have been damaged after many of its walls were blown up. In the initial exchange of firing, one army soldier was injured, the officials said.

Jammu and Kashmir

The infiltration of militants into Kashmir valley has gone up this year despite Army being on high alert along the LoC and militants are making desperate attempts to sneak in even after surgical strikes conducted by Special Forces of Army in PoK last month. According to MAC figures, 83 militants, mostly belonging to LeT, have infiltrated into Kashmir this year till August while last year the number was 35 for the whole year. However, a senior security force officer said that it is a conservative estimate and the figure could be higher than official figure as since July 8, after the killing of HM 'commander', Burhan Wani, the security agencies are not getting accurate picture about recently infiltrated militants. The officer said that some of the recently infiltrated groups are yet to come under SFs radar. Some of these militants are still in North Kashmir's forest areas near the LoC while others have managed to reach the hinterland unnoticed.

Baramulla District

At least 44 persons were arrested in an operation in Baramulla District for their involvement in terror-related activities. It was a multi-agency crackdown in the old town of Baramulla. After 700-odd houses were searched, security agencies seized petrol bombs, Chinese and Pakistani flags, letter pads of LeT and JeM, illegal mobile phones and other seditious material, defence spokesperson Manish Kumar said. The crackdown was part of a joint operation by the Army, the BSF, the CRPF and Police in 10 localities, including Qazi Hamam, Ganai Hamam, Taweed Gunj and Jamia, considered safe havens for terrorists. A large number of suspected hideouts were also busted during the search operation, the officer added. The Police said that the search operation was launched to nab militants. "We had information about the presence of militants in the area. It was an anti-militancy operation aimed at nabbing some Jaish-e-Mohammed militants who had taken refuge in the area," said SSP, Baramulla, Imtiyaz Hussain Mir. The LeT has reportedly issued a warning to the Baramulla SHO for facilitating the operation.

Jammu and Kashmir

Security agencies have listed over 1200 OGWs across Kashmir who are helping militants in logistics besides carrying out reconnaissance for them. Sources said that security agencies have listed 1242 OGWs across Kashmir and are keeping a close watch on their activities. These OGWs, as per reports, are helping militants in logistics and are carrying out reconnaissance for militant attacks. However, unofficially the number of OGWs in Kashmir has been put at 1850. Out of these OGWs, 350 are in North, 350 in South and 200 in Central Kashmir. However, unofficially the figure of OGWS in North, South and Central Kashmir is at 550, 1100 and 200 respectively. A top security official said that as per the official records there are 235 militants active in Kashmir. However, he put the unofficial figures of militants across Kashmir at 360. The official said that in Kupwara, 80 militants are active while unofficially, he put the figure at 100. In Sopore, there are 18 militants of JeM, LeT and HM active while unofficially the figure is 35. In Bandipora, there are 9 JeM and LeT militants but unofficially the figure is 15 while in Baramulla, the number of active militants is 12 and unofficially the figure is 25. The official said that in South Kashmir, there are 81 militants of HM, JeM and LeT active while unofficially the number is 130. And in Central Kashmir, the official put the figures at 35 while unofficial figure of number of militants in Central Kashmir is 54. The official said in Srinagar, that was few months back militancy free, has 18 active militants with 5 of them locals and rest are foreigners. Sources said that out 235 militants operating in Kashmir, 153 are Pakistanis and rest are locals. Out of these Pakistani militants, as per MAC figures, 83 have infiltrated into Kashmir from PoK this year till August while rest are Kashmiris and around 50 of them have joined militancy this year only.

Kupwara District

SFs killed one LeT 'commander' in Lolab area in Kupwara District. Army and Police launched an operation in Kawari village in Varnow area of Lolab after they received information about presence of a militant commander of LeT in the area. SSP, Kupwara, Shamsher Hussain, said that based on a specific information a joint cordon and search operation was launched by SOG Lolab and 18 RR of Army in Kawari village of Lolab. Hussain said that during search of the area, the militant came out of the house and was engaged in a brief gun battle outside. The SSP said that LeT 'commander' has been identified as Abu Saad alias Shahid. He was affiliated with LeT and was active in Lolab for last three years. He said Saad was receiving infiltrated groups and later launching them to the hinterland. "He was also involved in instigating and pushing the youth of the area for stone pelting and anti-India protests", he said. The SSP said that one AK rifle, three magazines, 89 AK rounds, one wireless set and one 1 Ikon was recovered from the encounter site.

Bandipora District

An encounter took place between the SFs and LeT militants at village Ajar in Bandipora District. Sources said that the SFs launched a search operation in the village against a group of LeT militants, including their Bandipora 'commander' Abu Ukasha, and his associate Abu Maviya. However, as the Army fired a 'probe shot' towards a house in which they had taken shelter, militants responded with UBGL and automatic rifle fire and escaped into nearby forest area. The group had infiltrated from Macchil sector of Kupwara District in August 2016 and then shifted to Lolab (Kupwara District) before arriving in Bandipora. It is based in Bandipora for last two months. One of the members of this group was recently killed in Argam (Bandipora District) while another was injured.

Sopore District

A LeT militant from Kashmir surrendered in Sopore District, after his father was brought to the site to persuade him to lay down his arms. Umar Khalid Mir had been holed up in a house cordoned off by Army, CRPF and Police personnel at Tujarsharief in Sopore, since Thursday evening, a Police spokesperson said. According to DIG (north Kashmir), Uttam Chand, Umar had joined LeT on May 16, 2016 and crossed over to PoK for training. He infiltrated into India recently, along with a group of foreign militants.

Baramulla District

SFs killed two militants of LeT, including its 'commander' at Drusu village in the Sopore area of Baramulla District. The slain militants were identified as Abu Maaz and Abu Raafi. Abu Maaz was a LeT 'commander'. Two AK-47 rifles and ammunition were recovered from their possession.

Baramulla District

A policeman was killed in an encounter with militants in the forest area of Sopore in Baramulla District. Sources said that the SFs cordoned off Marbal village of Zaloora in Sopore in the night of November 15 after they received information about presence of four LeT militants. They said early in the morning of November 16 at around 4:30 am militants fired at the SFs who had cordoned off the village, killing a policeman. Police said that the area is under cordon and "we hope to get them soon".

Pulwama District

A local LeT militant was killed in an encounter in Kakapora area in Pulwama District, while his accomplice fled. Sources said that acting on a specific input, Police and Army's 50 RR had laid an ambush in Begumbagh village of Kakapora in the District on a link road. Two militants came on a motor cycle and on seeing the Army and Police, they tried to flee during which the militant was killed. Sources said that one militant Majid was driving the bike and another one Rayees Ahmad Dar was his pillion rider. When Majid noticed the SFs, he made a quick U-turn and Rayees fell of the motor cycle and was killed in a brief gun battle. One AK-47 rifle and magazines were recovered from him. Majid also left the bike a short distance from the encounter site and fled away on foot. SFs immediately cordoned off the area but the militant had managed to flee from the area. The operation was later called off. Rayees had joined the militancy a month ago. The killing of the militant triggered massive protests and clashes in Kakapora and several areas of Pulwama District as youth came out on the streets and pelted stones on SFs and vehicles plying on roads. The stone pelting was reported from Gadoora, Newa, Pahoo, Kakapora, Pinglina and Hassanwani areas of the District. The protesters at these places targeted scores of vehicles that were plying through these areas. DIG of Police, South Kashmir, Nitesh Kumar, said, Rayees was a local newly-recruited militant. He urged the local militants to lay down arms before SFs and said that they will be rehabilitated. Kumar said that he has directed all District SPs and SSPs of South Kashmir to open a special cell for the surrender and rehabilitation of local militants in their Districts. He appealed all the local militants especially those who joined recently to surrender before the Police. The DIG said that the militants who surrender would be rehabilitated so that they earn their livelihood. He said that they have tied up with some NGOs who will provide vocational training to the surrendered militants. He said that there are 84 local militants in South Kashmir.

Kulgam District

LeT militants opened fire on three personnel of 18th Armed Police Battalion of J&K Police near Bus Stand in Kulgam of Kulgam District killing two of them and critically injuring another. Another Policeman who was holding a teargas thrower fired a tear gas at the militants who left the car behind and fled through nearby orchards.

Baramulla District

Army said a militant after being persuaded laid down arms and surrendered before the SFs in Tujjar area of Sopore in Baramulla District. The Army said a pistol was recovered from the militant. He is the second militant of LeT in North Kashmir who surrendered before the SFs since November 4.

Budgam District

Police said three militants, including two foreigners, with the assistance of five-member LeT module robbed Jammu and Kashmir Bank branch of Malpora in Budgam District on November 21. SP, Pulwama, Rayees Bhat, stated that based upon specific leads about the bank robbery and the trail left by assailants, Police meticulously dealt with the clues using technology as well as human sources. "During the process, the team zeroed in on one Muhammad Iqbal Wani, a resident of Chewa Kalan in Pulwama District. His arrest and disclosures further led to Farooq Ahmad Bhat and Tanveer Alam Wani, both residents of Chew Kalan," the SP said. The SP said that during questioning it was found that the trio ran a "highly committed and confidential" OGWs network of LeT. "They revealed that conspiracy of robbing the Malpora Branch was hatched and master minded by one Arif Dar alias Abu Haibatullah - resident of Lelhar village of Kakapora in Pulwama, who is an active local militant of LeT, along with two foreign militants, identified by their codes, Abu Ali and Abu Ismail," the SP said. Bhat further said that the OGWs provided all the support for facilitating the robbery, including transportation, logistics and had conducted recce of the bank multiple times. "The group also used the services of Tanveer Bhat and Raqeeb Rather, also residents of Chewa Kalan, for driving the assailants to and fro upto Malpora," he said. The SP said the militant trio on November 21 left Chew Kalan village along with LeT OGWs in two vehicles and on reaching Malpora, they barged into the Bank branch and robbed it of nearly INR 1.3 million by keeping the employees at gun point. "It was their (militants) plan basically," he said. "After the incident, the group drove back to Chew Kalan, where these militants de-boarded en route and decamped along with the cash. With the arrest of these five suspects, a very important OGW module of LeT outfit stands busted. The hunt is on for the militants who are in hiding," the SP Pulwama informed.

Hassanpora Khudwani village / Kulgam District

SFs launched an operation at Hassanpora Khudwani village in Kulgam District after they received information about presence of 3-4 militants of LeT, including 'divisional commander' Abu Dujana and Abdul Majeed Gania, in the area. The cordon was laid around the village. However, the SFs fired several tear smoke shells inside a house where they had information about presence of militants. The militants responded by firing few shots. The firing stopped thereafter. The firing again started and it was going on at the time of reporting. The residents of the area, meanwhile, pelted stones at the SFs during the cordon and more troops were rushed to the area for law and order duty.

Arwani area / Anantnag District

A man was killed and a soldier injured in a gun battle at Hassanpora in the Arwani area of Anantnag District between militants and SFs. An unnamed Police spokesman said: "As has been reported earlier an encounter is going on at Hassanpora Tabela, Arwani in jurisdiction of police station Bijbehara, Anantnag between militants and joint operation team of police and SFs. At some distance from the encounter site, a stray bullet hit a person identified as Arif Ahmad Shah S/o Mohammad Khalil Shah R/o Gund Baba, Sangam. The said person later succumbed to his injuries. Police has appealed to the people not to assemble or come close to the encounter sites as there is every chance that stray bullets may hit them and they may get injured". As reported earlier the SFs had launched an operation in Hassanpora Khudwani village of Anantnag District (earlier it was reported that the area lies in Kulgam District) on December 7 after they received information about presence of 3-4 militants of LeT, including 'divisional commander', Abu Dujana. The gun battle was still going on. Though sources said that SFs have seen two bodies of militants lying in the rubble of the house where the encounter was taking place, the body of these two militants has not been recovered so far. A UJC statement, however, claimed that three militants - Abdul Majeed Zargar, Mohammad Waseem and Raheel Amin - were killed in the encounter.

Arwani area / Anantnag District

Three militants were killed in a gun battle that ended in the Arwani area of Anantnag District. However, the identity of militants could not be established as the bodies were burnt beyond recognition. An unnamed Defence spokesman said that the SFs killed three militants and recovered three weapons. An unnamed Police spokesman while giving details said that Police received specific information about the presence of militants in the house of one Mushtaq Ahmad Ganie son of Ghulam Qadir Ganie at Hassanpora in the Arwani area of Anantnag on December 7. "As per the information, Mushtaq Ahmad Ganie works as an OGW of terrorists of LeT outfit and not only harboured terrorists in his house, but also provides all sort of logistical support to them", the spokesman said. "Based on this input, an operation was launched by joint team of Anantnag, Awantipora police along with Army and CRPF. The said house was cordoned off and when the security forces party entered into the house for searching, terrorist fired on them. The fire was retaliated and the ensuing gun battle lasted for almost two days. The operation concluded today [December 9] when a joint team of Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPFs QAT stormed the house and cleared it. The cover fire to the storming team was given by Army troops" the spokesman said. He said that during the search operation, two bodies of the militants and three AK-rifles along with other incriminating material has been recovered from the debris of the house. As reported earlier, one civilian was killed in the cross-fire on December 8.

An unnamed Police official said that the three LeT terrorists killed in the encounter at Anantnag were planning to create fresh unrest in the Valley on the lines of disturbances that followed after HM militant Burhan Wani was gunned down in a similar encounter on July 8. "They wanted the protests by locals' supporters to get out of hand and lead to a law & order face-off between the forces and local sympathizers. This, they believed, would have triggered a fresh spell of unrest in the Valley. However, with locals failing to come in aggressive support and confining themselves to pelting stones at the forces, it seems their plans went awry, and they finally fell to the bullets after a protracted gunfight," said the officer.

Jammu and Kashmir

According to MAC figures, 116 militants, mostly belonging to the LeT, have infiltrated into Kashmir in 2016 till November while the number was 35 for the whole of 2015. Also, sources said militant training camps are active in PoK with 19 of them most active including those at Skardu, Kel, Karko, Dullu, Titwal, Chakoti, Kotli, Dehri, Barhal Mirpur and Chaprai. In these training camps, the militants are receiving rigorous training besides map reading, GPS use, weight, weapon and tactical training. They said that over 200 militants are still waiting at launch pads for infiltration before the heavy snowfall closes the mountain passes. According to official figures, 147 militants have been killed in 2016 so far while the figure for the whole of 2015 was 97. The killed include 40 of this year's infiltrated militants. As per the official figure, this year 71 SF personnel were killed along the LoC, IB and hinterland, in Pakistani troops firing and during gun battles with militants. The figures suggested that 76 locals joined militancy in 2016 and 16 of them were killed and surrendered leaving 60 still active. Majority of them joined after July 8 following the killing of HM 'commander' Burhan Wani.

Sopore area / Baramulla District

A LeT 'divisional commander', identified as Abu Bakar, was killed in a gun battle in the Sopore area of Baramulla District. Sources said that SFs got information about presence of Abu Bakar, hiding in Bomai village of Sopore. The area was cordoned off by the SFs during which the militant opened fire on troops leading to a gun battle in which SFs killed him. One AK-47 rifle, four magazines, few rounds and two hand grenades were recovered from his possession.

Pulwama District

Militants looted INR 984,000 from Ratnipora branch of J&K Bank in Pulwama District. SP, Pulwama, Rayees Bhat, said, "From the Ratnipora bank branch, Rs 9.84 lakh [INR 984,000] have been looted and out of which 16,000 is old currency while rest is new currency. Today we got the CCTV footage from the bank and it has been established that LeT is behind the bank robberies. The militants involved in today's robbery are Arif Dar of Lelhar and Abu Ali. They are wanted in the bank robbery and two others who were outside acted as scouts and were guarding their colleagues". Significantly, this is the fourth bank robbery in the State since July 9, 2016, and third since November 8, 2016. On December 8, 2016, militants had targeted a branch of the same Bank at Arihal in the same district and looted INR 133,800. On November 21, militants had robbed a bank in Chrar-e-Sharief area of Budgam District.

Kadalbal / Pampore / Pulwama District

SFs have launched a massive manhunt, against militants of LeT responsible for attack on an Army convoy at Kadalbal in Pampore area in Pulwama District of South Kashmir on National Highway on December 17, in which three Army personnel were killed and two others injured. Army assisted by J&K Police and CRPF launched massive operations in South Kashmir against the LeT militants responsible for the attack.

Chakan-Da-Bagh / Poonch District and Uri / Baramulla District

The NIA simultaneously conducted raids at TFCs at Chakan-Da-Bagh in Poonch District and Uri in Baramulla District, from where cross-LoC trade takes place in four days of every week (Tuesday to Friday) after developing specific inputs that some of the traders were misusing barter facility to pump money to fuel militancy in Jammu and Kashmir. Official sources told that the NIA teams conducted raids at Chakan-Da-Bagh and Uri simultaneously after registering a FIR under Regular Case 17 of 2016 in New Delhi following very credible and specific inputs that some of the traders were getting extra goods from PoK and part of the money generated from them was being pumped into the militancy in Jammu and Kashmir. "This was being done in-league with the terror networks of LeT, JeM and HM, who have their cadre in both parts of the divided States i.e. Jammu and Kashmir and PoK," sources said. They added that the NIA has seized entire record of 303 firms, dealing in cross-LoC trade on Poonch-Rawlakote route, which would be used to identify the traders, who had misused cross-LoC trade facility and generated funds for the anti-national activities.

Pampore area / Pulwama District

Security is on high alert along the NH in J&K after attack on Army convoy last week in Pampore area of Pulwama District in which three Army personnel were killed and two injured. SFs established check points at Gallender, Kadalbal and Sempora on NH in Pulwama District and were frisking the vehicles at these places on the highway since early morning. They had also established checkpoints at Kakapora, Dangerpora and at Khadermoh junction on Pulwama-Kakapora road to conduct surprise checks and frisking of suspicious vehicles. However, no one was arrested during the checking and frisking of the vehicles. SFs have also stepped up their hunt to track down the militants of LeT who attacked the Army convoy on December 17 in Pampore area of Pulwama District killing three Army men and injuring two others.

Hajan area / Bandipora District

Three militants of LeT fled from cordon in Hajan area of Bandipora District, after locals pelted stones at SFs. The militants who were hiding in the village were identified as Musaib, Maviya and Khitab, all Pakistanis, who infiltrated into Kashmir this year and are operating in this area for past few months. SFs were tracking them for last few months in the area. On a tip of about presence of three militants of LeT hiding in a house in Parray Mohalla Hajin, the SFs' cordoned it off. However, locals pelted stones on them and facilitated fleeing of the three militants. Militants also fired several rounds at the SFs before fleeing. The SFs fired tear smoke to disperse the protesters. They later called of the operation to prevent collateral damage.

Hajin / Bandipora District

Two Army men were injured in a gun battle with LeT militants in Shahgund area of Hajin in Bandipora District. Sources said that on a specific input about the presence of militants in the area, Army and SOG of JKP launched a joint operation in Shahgund Hajin area early today. At least three militants of LeT, who were hiding in the village, opened fire at the troops who were laying cordon around Gulshanpora Mohalla of Shahgund in Hajin, injuring two Army men. The militants who were hiding in the village fled under the cover of heavy fire and darkness. The militants were identified as Musaib and Maviya and Khitab, all Pakistanis, infiltrated into Kashmir this year and are operating in this area for past few months.

Bandzoo village / Pulwama District

A group of militants fled after SFs cordoned off Bandzoo village in Pulwama District. SFs received specific information about presence of a group of militants in the orchard area of the village last evening. Sources said that local militants of LeT and HM had a meeting in the orchards to chalk out the strategy and SFs after receiving information cordoned it off but the militants managed to flee. SFs later conducted searches of these orchards but militants had fled. They, however, recovered two pouches, one magazine, 60 rounds of ammunition and some food items.