Two Hybrid Militants Nabbed in Shopian, Weapons Seized
In a significant security operation in Jammu and Kashmir&rsquo;s Shopian district, two hybrid militants affiliated with the proscribed terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were apprehended by security forces on Wednesday night.
According to officials from the police and army, the operation was launched following credible intelligence inputs in the Baskuchan area of Poonch. A cordon and search operation (CASO) was swiftly initiated, during which movement was detected in a nearby orchard.
Security personnel executed a strategic response, successfully cornering and securing the surrender of the two suspects without any exchange of fire. The arrested individuals have been identified as Irfan Bashir and Uzair Salam, both residents of the Kashmir Valley.
Upon search, the forces recovered two AK-56 assault rifles, four magazines, 102 rounds of 7.62x39mm ammunition, two hand grenades and two pouches. Officials confirmed that an FIR has been registered and a detailed investigation is currently underway to ascertain the duo&rsquo;s involvement in terror-linked activities and broader network affiliations.
The term &ldquo;hybrid militants&rdquo; is used by security agencies to describe individuals who are radicalised but remain off the radar of law enforcement, blending into civilian life until tasked with specific strikes.
The timely action, officials said, averted a possible armed confrontation and neutralised a looming threat in the region.

LeT-linked suspects surrender after night-long cordon op; AK rifles, grenades recovered

Two Hybrid Militants Caught in Shopian

LeT-linked suspects surrender after night-long cordon op; AK rifles, grenades recovered

May 29, 2025 | 10:18 IST