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Incidents and Statements involving Lashkar-e-Taiba : 2017

Date

Place
Incident

Nature of incident

January 3

Sopore area / Baramulla District

A LeT militant identified as Abu Umar Khitab of Pakistan was killed in an encounter with SFs in Sopore area in Baramulla District. SFs had laid an ambush at Haritar in Sopore during the intervening night following information about movement of militants through the area, a Police official said. He said SFs on noticing suspicious movement in the wee hours challenged the persons who opened fire. "In the retaliatory firing, one terrorist was killed," the official said. The militant affiliated with LeT and was active for last four years. He was believed to part of the militant group, which escaped from the SFs cordon several times last month in Hajjan area of North Kashmir. Sources said that the militant was operating in Sopore, Hajin, Gunde Jehanghir and Shah Gund areas of North Kashmir and SFs were tracking his movement for long. They said one AK 47 rifle, one hand grenade, three magazines, 70 AK ammunition rounds, one I-com set, one compass, one bag and one torch was recovered from his possession.

Violent
January 4

Handwara area / Kupwara District

SFs arrested a LeT militant from Handwara area of North Kashmir in Kupwara District, who was planning to carry out attack on security convoys in the area. Police said that on specific information one LeT militant identified as Ashiq Ahmed alias Abu Haider was arrested by Handwara Police and 21 RR of army near Fruit Mandi crossing in Handwara in the District. "On sustained interrogation he disclosed that he was a close associate of Abu Bakar a LeT 'commander' killed in Sopore few days back. On further discloser the arrested militant said that in near future he was planning to attack security forces convoy in Handwara area", Police said. Police said that huge cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from him. These include one AK-47 rifle, 3 Magazines with live cartridges, one Chinese Pistol with one Magazine, three Hand Grenades, one Magazine Pouch, one Map and one Haversack.

Non-Violent
January 6

Budgam District

Al-Badr terrorist Muzzafar Ahmed, who had links with LeT, was gunned down by the SFs after heavy exchange of fire in Budgam District. Ahmed, who was wanted in several cases, was earlier associated with LeT. Also, a Policeman sustained critical injuries during the encounter.

Violent
January 10

Parray Mohalla Hajan / Bandipora District

A top LeT militant was killed in a gun battle in Bandipora District. SFs including 13-RR of army and SOG of JKP, Bandipora, cordoned off Parray Mohalla Hajan in the District. A LeT militant, who was hiding in a house opened fire on the troops, leading to a gun battle in which he was shot dead by the troops. After the gun battle during searches one AK 47, three AK Magazines, three hand grenades, one radio set, one pouch, one matrix sheet and 200 AK rounds were recovered from the encounter site. The militant was identified as Abu Maviya of LeT.

Violent
January 10

Heff Shermal / Shopian District

SFs including 55 RR and SOG Shopian cordoned off Heff Shermal in Shopian District. There are seven militants of LeT from the village and SFs had information about their movement in the village. However, the operation was later called off and no one was arrested.

Non-Violent
January 10

Pampore / Pulwama District

SFs including 50 RR, 183 Battalion of CRPF and SOG Kakapora cordon off Kandi Zal area of Pampore in Pulwama District. Sources said that the SFs had information about presence of Reyaz Dar of LeT and his associates in the village. However, the operation was later called off.

Non-Violent
January 16

Pahalgam area of Anantnag District

Three LeT militants were killed in an encounter with SFs at Awoora village in Pahalgam area of Anantnag District. Acting on specific intelligence input about the presence of three LeT militants, 'commander' Adil, Masood and Abid, hiding in the village, Army's 3rd RR and SOG launched a search operation in the area on January 15. An army official said as the SFs were conducting the search operation, the hiding militants fired upon them and the SFs retaliated. The exchange of fire went on till late in the evening after which it was halted for the night, the official said, adding it was resumed in the wee hours today and the three militants were killed in the gunfight. Three AK-47 rifles have been recovered from the encounter site, the official said adding the operation has been called off.

Violent
January 19 Bandipora District

A LeT militant was killed in an encounter with SFs in Bandipora District. Acting on specific intelligence inputs that there might be militants hiding in Parray Mohalla in the Hajin area, SFs launched a search operation in the village. As the forces were conducting the search operation, the hiding militant opened fire on them. In the ensuing encounter, the LeT militant Abu Musaib was killed and a SOG soldier was also injured in the brief encounter, Police said.

Violent
January 24

Ganderbal District

Two top militants of the LeT outfit were killed in a gun battle on the outskirts of Srinagar in Ganderbal District. Following a tip off about the presence of militants in Hadoora, Shuhama area in Ganderbal District, Police from Srinagar and Ganderbal along with 5-RR and CRPF cordoned off the area and launched the search operation. "The hiding militants opened fire on joint search party which was retaliated, triggering an encounter during which two militants of LeT were killed. Two AK-47 rifles, one grenade, six magazines and 180 rounds of AK ammunition were recovered from the encounter site", SSP, Ganderbal, Imtiaz Ismail Parray, said. The two LeT militants have been identified as Qari Hanzullah and Anas Bilal and both of them were residents of Pakistan. They were associates of top LeT 'commander' Abu Hurraira who is operating from Dachigam area in the outskirts of Srinagar for last several years. They were operating in Srinagar and Ganderbal districts since January 22, 2013 and had recently started coordinating with HM.

Violent
February 3

Pulwama District

SFs arrested a LeT militant from Nowpora Payeen village of Lassipora in Pulwama District. Police said that based upon specific input, SFs including Police and Army's 55 RR launched a cordon and search operation at Nowpora area of the District, during which a local militant identified as Manzoor Ahmad was arrested, along with one pistol, two pistol rounds, 36 AK rounds, one Chinese grenade, two pistol magazines, one pouch and first aid kit, from the possession of the arrested militant. During the cordon and search operation, locals came out of their houses and pelted stone on Police and Army. Police fired several teargas shells on protesters and also resorted to aerial firing to break up the stone pelting protest. However, no protester was injured in the clashes and later the cordon was lifted by forces.

Violent
February 12 Kulgam District

Eight persons including four militants, two Army personnel and equal number of civilians were killed and around 24 civilians were injured in an encounter followed by clashes in Kulgam District. Acting on specific information about the presence of militants in Nagbal, Frisal area of the District, Kulgam Police along with 1-RR and 18th Battalion of CRPF cordoned off the suspected house and started the search operation, Police said. The four militants killed in the encounter were identified as Farooq Ahmad Bhat of Checki Dessand, Mohammad Younis Lone of Hawoora, both were HM militants and Mudisir Ahmad Tantary alias Assim of Redwani Kulgam and Wakeel Ahmad Thoker of Hadigam, both were LeT militants. Two AK rifles, two pistols, one INSAS rifle and ammunition were recovered from the encounter site. Further, people in the area came out in street as the encounter was in progress and pelted stones on SFs near the encounter site. The SFs fired teargas and pellets in which around two dozen persons were injured, out of which one Mushtaq Ibrahim Itoo succumbed to his injuries.

Violent
February 14 Bandipora District

Two top LeT 'commanders' were among four militants and four soldiers including an Army Major killed while six soldiers and a civilian were injured in two separate gun battles in North Kashmir. Sources said that on a tip-off, Army, SOG of JKP and CRPF launched a joint search operation at Parray Mohalla Hajan in Bandipora District. They said that as the SFs were sealing the area, militants hiding in the village opened fire on troops and hurled hand grenades. The SFS returned the fire killing one militant who has been identified as Abu Haris, a top 'commander' of LeT. Srinagar based Defence Ministry spokesman, Lt Col Rajesh Kalia identified the Army men killed in the gun battle as Dharmendera Kumar of Pataliya, Uttarakhand; Rifleman Ravi Kumar of Meen Sarkar Tabela of Samba and Gunner Astosh Kumar of Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh.

Violent
February 14 Kupwara District

Three militants were killed and an Army Major was injured in Handwara area in Kupwara District. SFs received information about presence of three-four militants in Khan Mohalla Hajin Kralgund area of Handwara's Kupwara District. Major S Dhaiya, who was leading the operation, succumbed to his injuries. One of the killed militants has been identified as Abu Darda, a top 'commander' of LeT and the identity of other two is being ascertained.

Violent
February 15 Bandipora District

Police identified the militants who were killed in the encounter at Parray Mohalla Hajan in Bandipora District on February 14, as LeT 'commander' Abu Darda alias Shafiq, operating in North Kashmir between 2008 and 2010 and later he ex-filtrated to Pakistan and again infiltrated in 2016 and was operating in Handwara and Kupwara areas of North Kashmir, while the other two militants have been identified as Abu Maviya and Abu Saad.

Non-Violent
February 22 Kulgam District

At least three militants including 'district commander' of HM, fled from the cordon after stone pelting by locals on SFs during the operation in Kulgam District. Massive stone-pelting clashes erupted in two villages of the District as SFs launched search and cordon operations against a group of militants including HM 'commander', Altaf Ahmad Kachru. Sources said that Army's 1-RR, SOG of JKP and CRPF cordoned off Tarigam village of Kulgam District after receiving an input about the presence of three militants. Sources said that as the searches were started, the locals including women came out of their houses and held protests. The locals pelted stones on SFs involved in operations and tried to break the cordon to give safe passage to militants who were believed to be trapped inside.

Violent
March 7 J&K

Mehmood Shah, an LeT spokesman, praised people for "ensuring the safety of the militants". "We won't let the people-militant bond to break. Till people are in the field, militants will continue to outsmart Indian troopers," said the LeT spokesman.

Statement
March 9 Pulwama District

Two militants were killed in a fierce gun battle broke out between SFs and LeT militants in Padgampora area of Pulwama District in the morning. "The slain militants have been identified as Jehangir Ganai and Mohammad Shafi alias Sher Gujri," a senior CRPF officer said, adding that Ganai was involved in the killing of a local Policeman last year (2016). SFs from the CRPF and SOG of J&K Police have started search operations and cordoned off the area where two-three militants of the group were holed up even. Army was deployed to carry out combing operations.

Violent
March 15

Hyhama area / Kupwara District

Three LeT militants and a minor girl were killed while another minor boy and a SF person were injured in an encounter at Hyhama area of Kupwara District of North Kashmir. SSP Kupwara, Shamsher Hussain, said that three militants of LeT, identified as Abu Mala, Anas Bhai and Abu Mansoor (all of them were Pakistani nationals) were killed in gun battle at Jagityal Kulnard area of Kupwara this morning (March 15). A minor girl, identified as Kaneeza and a minor boy Faisal were injured when they were hit by bullets during the encounter. Girl Kaneeza succumbed to her injuries and boy was shifted to Srinagar for treatment. A Police constable identified as Danish Ahmad was also injured in the encounter. Three AK-47 rifles, six hand grenades, one GPS, one wireless set, six magazines and large quantity of ammunition was recovered from them.

The SSP said that these militants were active in Kralpora, Dardpora, Marhama, Awoora and its adjacent areas for last one year. He said that they had infiltrated last year (2016) and were part of reception party of LeT. He said that they were receiving infiltrated militants from Keran and Tangdhar sectors and providing them logistic support before launching them to Kashmir valley.

Violent
April 3 Srinagar

One CRPF trooper was killed and five others were injured after suspected militants opened fire at a CRPF convoy at Pantha Chowk area in the outskirts of Srinagar. Unidentified militants fired at a civilian passenger vehicle carrying CRPF personnel of 97 Battalion at Sempora in Pantha Chowk area. Two civilians, including a 10-year-old girl, were also injured in the crossfire. One of the injured personnel, Head Constable Basappa, later succumbed to his injuries. LeT claimed responsibility for the attack. The personnel were on their way to Srinagar for election duty for Lok Sabha by-polls scheduled to be held on April 9.

Violent
April 11 Kulgam

SFs arrested a LeT militant in South Kashmir, as he was planning to carry out attack on SFs on a National Highway in Kulgam District. A Police officer said that based on intelligence input, Kulgam Police and RR of Army launched a manhunt and established a special Naka at Sangus-Kaharoot road, resultantly arrested one LeT militant, identified as Shakir Ahmad Itoo of Qoimoh, and recovered one Chinese grenade form his possession.

Non-violent
April 16 Srinagar

A communiqué, issued by the Police top brass has asked Police heads to brief their personnel regarding "the impending threat to ensure life and property of police personnel is well secured". According to the communiqué that was accessed by the newspaper, it has directed policemen "to exercise extreme caution while visiting their homes. Policemen should preferably avoid visiting their homes for the next few months as their security is of paramount importance," it read. Police sources said two top commanders of the Hizb- ul- Mujahideen (HM) and the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) held a meeting in Pulwama's Koil recently to finalise their new strategy "to go after the local policemen". According to Police investigations, handlers across the Line of Control have given their nod to start 'Operation Tiger' focusing on attacks on Policemen. Militants have already heightened activities against Policemen.

Statement
April 22 Chadoora area / Budgam District

SFs killed two LeT militants, identified as 'commander', Abu Ali and his associate Younis Ganai in a brief gun battle in Chadoora area of the Budgam District. According to Police, acting on specific information, 53 RR of Army and SOG of J&K Police Budgam cordoned off Hayatpora village of in Chadoora area of Budgam District on April 22 evening. The troops zeroed in two militants who were hiding in an orchard and in a brief exchange of gunfire, both the militants were killed. Sources said that militants fired at the troops as they cordoned off the area leading to a gun battle in which both of them were killed. Two AK 47, four magazines, one pistol and Chinese hand grenade were recovered from the possession of the dead militants.

Violent
April 27 J&K

Three major militant groups are operating together in Kashmir. A video, being circulated on social media, purportedly showed 30 militants of the HM, LeT and JeM together in south Kashmir. The armed militants of the three outfits were reportedly marching in front of the camera in the 45-second video shot in a forested area. "Militants from HM, LeT and JeM… are operating jointly. This trend started last year after the July unrest. Before that, they had different areas of operation," an unnamed senior security officer from Kashmir said.

Non-violent
May 3 Pulwama District

In third incident of its kind during preceding 24 hours in South Kashmir, militants in broad daylight raided two banks in Pulwama District and decamped with cash worth lakhs of rupees. Following these twin incidents, Police claimed that LeT is involved in these robberies and said they have identified three of its militants behind today's (May 3) bank raids on whom heads it also announced cash reward.

Violent
May 4 Kulgam District

SFs also laid a cordon in Khudwani of Kulgam District after a tip-off about the presence of LeT terrorists, but they escaped with public support, Police said.

Non-Violent
May 7 Kulgam District

Four LeT terrorists fired volleys from their automatic rifles into the air to pay "respect" to slain militant Fayaz Ahmed Ashwar, from Reshipora in Kulgam District of south Kashmir, during his funeral. It's rare for terrorists to be present for the funeral of their dead cohorts, and rarer for them to expose themselves by publicly displaying such support. Eyewitnesses said four armed militants appeared in the crowd who came to "pay" respect to slain HM militant Fayaz Ahmed Ashwar. "They fired a volley of bullets in the air and raised pro-azadi slogans," sources said.

Non-Violent
May 13

J&K

Police foiled a major attempt to revive militancy in Chenab Valley, which had been reduced to negligible during the past few years, by arresting seven militants, who had developed links in Pakistan as well as with LeT commanders in the Kashmir valley. The module was working to revive militancy in the Doda- Kishtwar-Ramban region of J&K. IGP of Jammu Zone S D S Jamwal said that the arrests were made by a SIT formed after the attack on a Police post in Doda on May 8, in which one SPO was killed and another injured. An AK-47 rifle and three magazines and ammunition have been recovered from them, the IGP added.

Non-Violent
May 14

Kupwara District

Two LeT militants who escaped from an Army base after carrying out Fidayeen attack on April 27 were killed in a gun battle in Handwara area of Kupwara District. The two militants were killed in a brief encounter in Warpora area of Handwara after 21 RR of Army and SoG of J&K Police Handwara carried out an operation on a specific information regarding the presence of militants in Warpora. We recovered large quantity of war like stores which includes two AK rifles, two pistols", the Commanding Officer 21 RR, Colonel Kuldeep Singh said.

Violent
May 20

J&K

The rising dissonance between Kashmiri separatists and terrorists based in the Valley on the one hand and Pakistan-based terrorist commanders and cadres in Kashmir on the other has led Indian agencies to suspect that terror masterminds across the border may be covertly planning a new terrorist organisation in J&K, with focus on ex-HM 'commander' Zakir Musa.

According to intelligence sources, multiple statements over the past two weeks by Musa, the self-styled successor of slain HM leader Burhan Wani, LeT, Kashmiri separatists and United Jehad Council chief Syed Salahuddin, coupled with images, videos and audio clips circulated on social media, point to "a widening conflict between key stakeholders of violence in the Valley". Intelligence sources said Pakistan may be attempting a repeat of its Kashmir strategy of the 1990s, when the only terror organisation - the JKLF - was supplanted and eventually replaced by many new outfits by 1993-94.

Non-Violent
May 20-21

Nowgam sector / LoC / Kupwara District

Seven persons, including four militants and three SFs personnel were killed as Army operation in Nowgam sector along the LoC in Kupwara District against the infiltrating militants. The operation started on May 20, as two terrorists and two Army troopers were killed in the operation while militants attempting to infiltrate into the State from PoK in the Nowgam sector.

Two militants and a soldier were killed as Army operation in Nowgam sector along the LoC in Kupwara District against the infiltrating militants continued on May 21 taking the number of militants killed in the operation so far to four and the number of Army men killed to three Lieutenant Colonel Rajesh Kalia said that four infiltrating militants and three soldiers were killed in Nowgam sector in North Kashmir during the operation that was launched by army last evening (May 20). "Four weapons and war like stores were also recovered as Army sanitized the area today (May 21)", he added. The soldiers who were killed in the operation have been identified as Havaldar Damar Bahadur, Havaldar Girish Gurung and Rifleman Robin Sharma.

Violent
May 22 LoC / Kupwara District

Four militants of LeT who were killed as Army foiled an infiltration bid along the LoC in Kupwara District on May 20-21 were highly trained Fidayeen (Suicide Squad), who were tasked to carry out major strike in Kashmir. Army sources said that four killed LeT militants were highly trained and were tasked to carry out a major Fidayeen strike in Kashmir. They said that the amount of arms and ammunition which was recovered from them indicated their plan of carrying out the major strike. The recoveries include four AK 47 rifles and AK 47 ammunition, UBGL grenades, hand grenades, GPS, wireless sets, Pakistan made medicine, dry fruits, binoculars, wire cutters and matrix sheets.

Non-Violent
May 23-24 Hakripora Kakpora / Pulwama District

Search operation launched by the SFs on May 23 in south Kashmir ended early this morning (May 24) as militants managed to escape under the cover of darkness, official sources said in Srinagar. They said with the first light this morning, the SFs resumed search operation in village Hakripora Kakpora in Pulwama District. However, the operation was called off at 05.30 am as the militants managed to escape under the cover of darkness.

The operation was launched on May 23th night following a tip-off about the presence of three militants including top LeT 'commander' in the village. There was a brief encounter between the militants hiding in the village and SFs. However, the operation was stopped due to darkness to avoid any casualty, the sources said. SFs had sealed the entire area after reinforcement was rushed there from nearby camps. However, the militants managed to escape. No arrests were made, they added.

Non-Violent
May 25 Handwara area / Kupwara District

LeT militants fired upon an Army patrol party in Rajwar forests of North Kashmir's Handwara area in Kupwara District in the night. A joint operation was launched by Army and SOG Handwara of Jammu and Kashmir Police in Rajwar forest area of Handwara in the morning. They had information about presence of around three to four militants in forest area. The entire area has been cordoned off and more troops have been rushed to the area so as to prevent militants from fleeing.

Violent
May 30

J&K

Sources said that while LeT was using Pakistan soil to pump hawala money into the Kashmir valley, some other cadre of the LeT and other militant outfits had also used Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, the two friendly neighbours of India, to pump money to the separatists using hawala channels in New Delhi, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh.

Non-Violent
June 1

Bandipora District

SFs busted an LeT OGW network by arresting five persons, that was supplying arms and ammunition to the militants in Bandipora District. Police said that an input was received that one Wagon-R vehicle is roaming between Chandergeer, Hajin, Shahgund and Gund-Jahangeer areas, carrying militants and OGWs and arms and ammunition and were planning attacks. SFs laid a naka at Khusarpora Hajin axis, leading to recovery of huge cache of arms and ammunition, which was meant to be supplied to LeT group operating in the Shahgund and Gund-Jahangeer areas.

During the checking, one white color Wagon-R vehicle was intercepted and five boarding persons, identified as as driver Bashir Ahmad Mir, Mohammad Younis Bhat, Shabir Ahmad Dar, Hilal Ahmad Parray, and Sonaullah Dar, were questioned. "The extensive search of the vehicle and personal search of the people boarding the vehicle was conducted and 10 grenades, 2 AK-47 magazines and 27 rounds of AK rifle were recovered from the vehicle. All the five persons were arrested and vehicle was seized", Police said.

Non-Violent
June 2

J&K

The central intelligence agencies and Police in Punjab and Jammu and Kashmir are on their toes following an input that a highly trained handler of LeT from Pakistan, identified as Hanzia Anan, is present in India to direct attacks against civilian and military targets. According to alert shared with the SFs, Anan's plans could include parts of Srinagar, Vijaypur railway station in Jammu, industrial areas in Samba and Bari Brahmana, boys hostel at Jammu Dental College, areas along Gurdaspur-Brahmana Road to Tibri near the Indian Army camp and Gurdaspur and Dinanagar in Punjab.

Intelligence agencies have not been able to establish Anan's location yet but sources said that he may have sneaked into India recently and could be helped by local operatives to carry out the attacks. It is not known yet whether the LeT operative came to India alone or along with other cadres, but the input on his presence has seen security at all locations being increased and efforts are being made to trace him.

Non-violent
June 5

Srinagar

The DGP, Dr SP Vaid said that Jamaat-ud-Dawa (JuD) is waging a major cyber war in Kashmir and Police and other security agencies are effectively dealing with it. "JuD has declared 2017 'year of Kashmir' and they with their malicious intentions are misleading children of Pakistan by saying they have to fight Jihad in Kashmir and there is no need to go to Kashmir and instead wage cyber Jihad from Pakistan only. A cyber war has been launched and we are trying to effectively deal with it. Their maximum efforts would be to create mayhem and disturbance in Kashmir which security and people of Kashmir won't let happen", he added.

Statement
June 12

Uri

The NIA has approached Pakistan to provide details of four fidayeen (suicide) attackers involved in Uri attack of September 18, 2017. The attack at Uri became one of the main reasons for strained Indo-Pak relations in the last one year. According to the sources in the anti-terror probe agency, a judicial request (letter rogatory) has been sent to Pakistan via diplomatic channels in which details of DNA samples, medicines, clothes, shoes, accessories and DNA of one of the four terrorists who was identified as Abu Anas by the agencies. NIA wants to know from Pakistan the identities of other three terrorists, their outfit and who sent them apart from other details. The agency probe points to the role of LeT in the terror strike. Earlier, the Army had claimed that JeM was behind the plot but later evidence suggested that the four fidayeen belonged to LeT.

Statement
June 16

Arwani village / Kulgam District

A joint team of SFs, in an encounter, killed three LeT militants, identified as Junaid Ahmad Mattoo alias 'Jana, Adil Mushtaq Mir alias 'Nana' and Nisar Ahmad Wani in Arwani village of Kulgam District. After getting specific input about the presence of three LeT militants, SF surrounded two houses in Arwani village. When the SFs closed in on the hiding militants, they were fired upon by the militants, triggering an exchange. The encounter continued throughout the day and firing ended this evening. Bodies of the three slain militants were recovered on June 17 morning. Report said that scores of people also received injuries during the clashes near the encounter site in Arwani village. Two youths, identified as Mohammad Ashraf (34) and Ahsan Mushtaq (15) were killed and 20 others injured during the clashes near the encounter site in Arwani. According to the Police, Mohammad Ashraf was caught in crossfire when the encounter started at 10 AM at Arwani village.

Violent
June 16

Achabal / Anantnag District

In one of the major militant attack against Police, six Police personnel including a SHO were killed in Achabal in Anantnag District. Two civilians were also injured in the attack. A group of at least 10 militants in the evening laid an ambush on a Police party at Thajwara village in Achabal in Anantnag District. They surrounded the Police party and opened fire from all directions at their vehicle killing SHO of Achabal Police Station, identified as Feroze Ahmed Dar and five others, identified as Constable Shariq Ahmad, Constable Tasveer Ahmad, Constable Shiraz Ahmad, SPO Mohammad Asif, SPO Sabzar Ahmad. Militants also snatched 5 AK-47 rifles and ammunition from the dead Policemen. Sources said that the SFs had inputs that the LeT are planning to carry out militant strike in Anantnag. Later, LeT has claimed responsibility for attack. The militants disfigured the faces of the six Policemen in the attack before walking away with their weapons, Police said.

Violent
June 17

Srinagar

The perpetrators of the ambush in which six Policemen were killed would "face the law" very soon, J&K DGP S P Vaid said and announced a bounty of INR 10 lakh for LeT 'commander' Bashir Lashkari who is believed to have orchestrated the attack.

Statement
June 19 J&K

Among the five militants who came to LeT 'commander' Junaid Matoo's funeral on June 17, two were from the HM, their attendance reflective of a co-ordination between terror outfits that SFs and the Police find worrisome. LeT militants Matoo, Nasir Ahmed Wani and Adil Mushtaq were killed in an encounter in Anantnag District on June 16. Nasir's funeral, too, was attended by two HM commanders. At both places - Matoo's Khudwani village in Kulgam and Nasir's family home in Heff, Shopian - the militants came armed and raised anti-India slogans. A senior Police officer said the presence of militant leaders at funerals of militants who did not belong to the same outfit, was a way to glamourise their movement. "It is a matter of concern for us," said the officer. "By appearing at militants' funerals, they are trying to attract more youths towards militancy and they have been successful sometimes."

Non-violent
June 22 New Colony Kakapora / Pulwama District

Three militants of the LeT were killed during search operation in Pulwama District. On a tip off about presence of a group of LeT militants hiding in New Colony Kakapora in Pulwama, SFs had launched cordon and search operation last evening (June 21). Militants fired upon SFs on seeing them, leading to an encounter in which an army Major, identified as Major Kartik suffered minor shoulder injury due to bullet hit. The encounter continued till morning and three militants were killed subsequently. Two of them have been identified as Majid Mir and Shabir while the identity of the third militant is yet to be ascertained.

Violent
June 24 Pantha Chowk area / Srinagar District

One SF person was killed and another one injured after heavily armed militants attacked a CRPF's patrol party in Pantha Chowk area on the Srinagar-Jammu NH in Srinagar District. A CRPF official in Srinagar said that militants armed with AK-rifles fired indiscriminately around 5:50pm on a vehicle, which was part of a 29 battalion CRPF patrol party, near Pantha Chowk bus stand in Srinagar. "The injured soldiers were evacuated to military hospital at Badamibagh, Srinagar, where Sub-Inspector (SI) Sahab Shukla and other jawan injured in the attack is undergoing treatment," he added. A civilian too has sustained minor injuries in the attack. Later, LeT claimed responsibility of Pantha Chowk attack. "Mujahideen Lashkar-e-Toiba attacked on CRPF party at Pantha Chowk on Srinagar-Jammu highway," LeT spokesman Dr Abdullah Ghaznavi said in a statement.

Violent
June 25 J&K

Investigations into a case of terror funding in the Kashmir Valley being carried out by the NIA revealed that the founder of JuD, Hafiz Saeed, pumped in almost INR 500 million for subversive activities in the region following the killing of top HM 'commander' Burhan Wani in July 2016. The FIR lodged by the NIA in connection with the case also names Saeed, who is the mastermind of the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack, as one of the main accused for financing terror activities in the Valley.

The ED, which also lodged a case on June 23 to investigate the money laundering angle in terror financing, too has named Hafiz. "Initial investigations have confirmed that Hafiz Saeed routed at least Rs 50 crore over a period of almost a year since last July during which time the Valley witnessed unprecedented violence. This is a conservative estimate and the figure could be much higher. Most of the money came through a well organised hawala network through Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh and UAE. We are trying to piece together the entire chain to establish clearly who were the end receivers of this money," a senior intelligence official said.

Statement
June 25 Pantha Chowk / Srinagar District

Two LeT militants were killed in an encounter that broke out between militants and SFs in DPS building at Pantha Chowk in Srinagar District. The encounter broke out at around midnight after militants attacked a CRPF vehicle on June 24 evening, killing SI of CRPF, identified Sahab Shukla and injuring two others near the entrance of DPS on the NH. The militants fled towards the school and took refuge inside one of the five huge buildings of DPS. SFs including on June 24 evening cordoned off the DPS soon after the attack on CRPF. The exchange of fire started after midnight when the militants fired on SFs who were searching for them in the school buildings. The gunfight continued till early morning on June 25 in which two militants were killed. The slain militants were identified as Abu Tala and Abu Hurraira, both Pakistanis who were part of Fidayeen group who were killed in EDI building early this year. Two AK rifles, one UBGL, 2 grenades and six AK-magazines were recovered from their possession. At least three Army soldiers were also injured during the operation in the building.

Violent
July 1 Dailgam village / Anantnag District

LeT 'commander' Bashir Ahmad Wani alias Bashir Lashkar and his associate, identified as Azad Ahmad Malik alias Dada along with two civilians, identified as Tahira Begum and Shadab were killed in a fierce encounter in Dailgam village in Anantnag District. A Police spokesman said gunfight between the militants and the SFs raged after siege was laid in the area following specific inputs. Police said 17 civilians, who were inside the house, where militants were trapped, were rescued. After the house was cleared of civilians, Police and Army blasted the house and it resulted in the killing of two militants. "While the cordon was being laid, some militants outside a house fired upon the security personnel which was retaliated. In the cross firing one woman sustained injuries and later succumbed," the Police spokesman said. Another youth was also injured in clashes who later died.

Violent
July 17

Bul Bul Nowgam area / Anantnag District

Three LeT militants were killed in an encounter in Bul Bul Nowgam area in Anantnag District. SSP Anantnag, Altaf Khan said that a joint team of SOG of Jammu and Kashmir Police, 19 RR of Army and CRPF cordoned off Bul Bul Nowgam area following specific inputs about the presence of militants. "As the security forces intensified the searches, the militants hiding in the area opened fire triggering an encounter in which three militants were killed", he said. The militants have been identified as Showkat Lohar of Arwani, Bijbehara in Anantnag District. He was an 'A-category' militant and was recruited by LeT last year (2016) in August. Another militant has been identified as Mudasir Ahmad Hajam of Danwatpura village in Kokernag in Anantnag District. He was 'B-category' militant and joined LeT in January 2017. Both the militants were part of Bashir Lashker group, who was killed early this month. The third militant is said to be a Pakistani and has not been identified as yet. One AK 47 rifle, an SLR and a pistol was recovered from their possession.

Violent
July 19

Pulwama District

The most wanted militant in Jammu and Kashmir and 'divisional commander' LeT, Abu Dujana, slipped out of SFs ambush in Pulwama District of South Kashmir after a brief gun battle and a massive operation has been launched against him. Sources said that LeT 'divisional commander', Abu Dujana, who is the most wanted militant in Kashmir valley slipped out of Police dragnet this evening in Pulwama District of South Kashmir by firing at a vehicle in which Police was chasing him. Sources said that Abu Dujana was on his way from Tral to Pulwama and Police in civvies was following him in a civil car.

They said that at Banderpora village, Abu Dujana got suspicious of a Bolero car that was chasing him. He fired at the tyre of the car before abandoning the Sumo in which he was travelling and also fired at the tyre of an Army vehicle that had laid ambush against him in the village. Police and Army also fired at him several rounds but he managed to slip out of their dragnet. More troops were rushed to the area and a massive hunt has been launched against him in the nearby villages by joint team of Police and Army. Police seized the two vehicles and arrested the driver of the Sumo and he is being questioned.

Non-violent
July 23

Srinagar

Police arrested six OGWs of LeT in Tengpora area of Srinagar. Acting on specific information, Srinagar Police had laid a naka at Tengpora bypass and as a vehicle in which they were travelling approached the naka, it stopped and the persons boarding the vehicle fled leaving behind the vehicle. Police chased and arrested them along with an AK-47 and other war like stores. They also seized two vehicles in which they were travelling. The arrested OGWs have been identified as Mastan Sirul Saba, Ishfaq Ahmad Dar, Arif Ahmad Dar, Masrat Ahmad Dar and Nisar Ahmad Lone.

Non-violent
August 1

Hakripora village / Pulwama District

At least two top LeT militants, identified as LeT Kashmir 'head' Abu Dujana alias Hafiz and another LeT militant Arif Lilhaari were killed during a fierce encounter in Pulwama District. Dujana was the LeT's so-called 'divisional commander', and reportedly hailed from northern Pakistan. Acting on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of militants in Hakripora village in Pulwama District, SFs launched a cordon and search operation in the area, a Police official said. The militants opened fired during the operation, prompting retaliation from the forces which triggered a gun battle, he said.

Violent
August 5

Sopore / Baramulla District

At least three militants of LeT were killed and a Police constable was injured in an encounter at Amargrah, Sopore in Baramulla District early morning. Official sources said that on specific information about the presence of militants, SFs and SOG of State Police launched a joint search operation at Amargrah early this morning. During the operation militants attacked the SFs with automatic weapons ensuing a fierce encounter in the open ground. Three LeT militants were killed and three AK rifles and other arms and ammunition were recovered from the slain militants, source said.

Violent
August 5

Zainapora area / Shopian District

Police and SFs arrested three OGWs of LeT, identified as Showkat Ahmad Mir, Waseem Ahmad Sofi and Junaid Ali Bhat, from Zainapora area of Shopian District. Three hand grenades were also recovered from them. Police said that during questioning, the OGWs admitted that they were working at behest of LeT operative Wasim Shah and were tasked to lob grenades on police establishments, cause death and injuries to Police personnel and snatch weapons in Shopian. The OGWs had also carried out observation of some Police guards for militant attacks.

Non-violent
August 6

Samboora village / Pulwama District

A LeT militant from Pakistan, identified as Umar was killed in an encounter with SFs in Samboora village of Pulwama District. Umar was part of the 'Abu Ismail group' of Kashmir, which is behind the July 10 attack on Amarnath pilgrims that left eight devotees killed and several others injured, a Police official said. The official said that SFs launched a cordon and search operation in Samboora village late night following information about presence of militants there. The search party of forces was fired upon by militants triggering a gunbattle, the official said. One militant was killed in the encounter, he said.

Violent
August 6

J&K

Nearly a month after eight Amarnath pilgrims were killed during a terror attack (July 10, 2017) in Pahalgam area, the State Police said that they have cracked the case. "Ismail, a Pakistani terrorist of LeT along with two other associates and a local Kashmiri terrorist carried out the attack," IGP - Kashmir, Muneer Ahmed Khan said while addressing a press conference in Srinagar. Another terrorist in the group of four had been identified as Yawar, a local recruiter for the LeT, the Police said. Efforts are on to identify the other two, believed to be Pakistanis. The police also released pictures of Abu Ismail and Yawar. He also said that the attack was "initially planned for July 9, but that day there was no movement of CRPF or yatri vehicle in isolation." Giving details about the attack, the IGP said, "Three locals provided logistical support to the terrorists. All of the accused have been arrested and produced before court, currently under police remand." "During investigation the accused completely revealed everything about the modus operandi of the terror attack," he said, adding, "They had code word 'Shaukat' for yatri vehicle and 'Bilal' for CRPF vehicle. It was purely a terrorist act." "There was yatri vehicle that day so they attacked it, had there been CRPF vehicle they would've attacked that, they had planned it."

The three "co-conspirators"-- Bilal Ahmed Reshi, Aizaj Wagey and Zahoor Ahmed --had carried out reconnaissance exercises and chosen Botengo near Khanbal as the spot where the attack could be carried out, the IGP said.The trio had also provided shelter to the four militants in Khudwani and Sriguffwara of south Kashmir, he said. Bilal's elder brother Adil, an alleged LeT terrorist, was killed by SFs earlier this year.

Statement
August 7-8

Pulwama District

Police and Army have launched hunt to trace an injured militant in Pulwama District. Reports said that a militant of LeT, Ayub Lone alias Ayub Lelhari was injured during an encounter in Samboora village in Pampora area two days ago. One Pakistani militant was killed but Ayub and his associate managed to escape from the cordon but he was injured. SFs on August 7 cordoned off Pahoo, Bougam Kakapora and Pinglana village to trace out the injured militant. The hunt to trace out him continued on August 8.

Non-violent
August 10

Sopore area / Baramulla District

SFs arrested a LeT militant, identified as Ishfaq Ahmad Kanna from Sopore area in Baramulla District and recovered a pistol and two grenades from his possession. During Naka checking, one suspected person jumped the Naka and fled to a nearby orchard. The area was cordoned off by the police and security forces and the suspected person was apprehended. During the search his identity was revealed as Ishfaq Ahmad Kanna son of Mohammad Shafi Kanna of Jamia-Qadeem Sopore district Baramulla, who recently joined LeT outfit", Police said. One pistol, one magazine, five rounds and two UBGL grenades were recovered from him. Police said that he was part of Lashkar module, three members of which were killed last week at Jamia Mohalla Amargarh Sopore. "Before joining LeT outfit, he worked as an active recruiter/OGW for LeT outfit in Sopore and other areas of North Kashmir", said police adding that he was involved in a grenade throwing case on Police Station Sopore.

Non-violent
August 16

Pulwama District

LeT's Pulwama 'district commander', Ayoub Ahmad Lone alias Ayoub Lelhari was killed in an encounter in Pulwama District. SSP Choudhary Mohammad Aslam, said that he was travelling in a Tavera car along with the driver and a civilian in Banderpora, Koil area when security forces intercepted the car. "He opened fire but was killed in the retaliatory fire by security forces," he added. Two Police personnel were injured in the initial firing after which an encounter started in which Lelhari was killed. The SSP said that driver of the car has been arrested but the civilian fled from the spot. Lelhari had been active in South Kashmir areas and had recently been designated as 'district commander' by the LeT.

Violent
August 16

Budgam District

A CRPF trooper, identified as Reyaz Ahmad who was injured in a grenade attack by militants in Budgam District on August 14, succumbed to injuries. Reyaz Ahmad died at SKIMS hospital in Soura. He was among the four SF personnel injured in the attack on August 14. The militants had hurled a grenade at a road opening party of CRPF and Police at Batpora in Magam area.

Violent
August 21 Pulwama District

Police identified the militants, who killed a student, Gowhar Ahmad Dar of Urpora Nagbal on August 20. Police blamed LeT for his killing. They identified the two LeT militants responsible for the killing of Gowhar as Waseem Shah, resident of Heff and Nazim Dar, resident of Urpora. They said a manhunt has been launched to nab them.

Non-violent
September 1

Pantha Chowk area / Srinagar

A Policeman was killed and seven others were injured as suspected LeT militants attacked a Police bus in Pantha Chowk area on the outskirts of Srinagar. Police said that militants ambushed a bus on its way from Zewan to Srinagar at Pantha Chowk area in the outskirts of Srinagar on September 1st evening. Police said that eight Policemen were injured and one of them succumbed to injuries. Later, LeT has claimed responsibility for the attack. Senior Police and SFs officials reached the spot and massive search operation has been launched in the area against the militants responsible for the attack.

Violent
September 2

Tantray Pora /Kulgam District

A suspected LeT militant, identified as Irshad Padder was killed during an encounter in Tantray Pora in Kulgam District in the morning. It is being said that the slain terrorist was involved in the brutal killing of 22-year-old Army officer Ummer Fayaz in Shopian District in May this year. The encounter is still underway and the exact number of militants is unknown till the report last came in.

Violent
September 14 Nowgam area / Srinagar District

In a major success for the SFs, the 'commander-in-chief' of LeT, Abu Ismail, who was the mastermind behind the Amarnath yatra attack (July 10, 2017), along with his associate, Abu Qasim alias Chota Qasim were killed in an encounter at Nowgam area of Srinagar District. Qasim was most wanted militant in South Kashmir as he was mastermind of attack on Amarnath yatris at Anantnag District in which eight pilgrims were killed. IGP, Muneer Khan revealed that a joint operation was launched in Nowgam after contact was established at 4.15 pm with the two militants hiding in a house in the area. "In a brief, crisp encounter, both terrorists were shot dead," he said. "Abu Ismail had 15 FIRs against him for murder, dacoity and other militancy related incidents," Khan said adding that two AK-47 rifles and other materials were recovered from the dead bodies.

Violent
September 17 IB / Arnia sector/Jammu District

Sources said the BSF has been retaliating Pakistan's unprovoked firing and shelling very effectively as there had been reports that LeT's militants have also mixed up with Pakistan army to target the BSF and infiltrate into the Indian territory. Taking no chance, the BSF was taking all steps to counter infiltration attempts by the militants on the IB. Confirming presence of militants especially those of LeT outfit on Pakistan side of IB opposite Arnia sector, sources said unprovoked mortar shelling and firing by the Pakistani Rangers on the BSF posts and civilian areas was also aimed at diverting attention of the troopers and civilians to push the armed infiltrators into this side. However, they added that the BSF while countering shelling and firing was also keeping strict vigil on the "unwanted movements" to ensure that the militants didn't manage to intrude taking cover of Rangers' provocations.

Non-violent
September 18

J&K

No militant is ready to become 'chief' of the LeT terror outfit in Jammu and Kashmir after the killing of Pakistani terrorist Abu Ismail in an encounter last week, said J&K DGP S P Vaid. "I heard there is a vacancy for the commander's post in Lashkar, but no one is ready to apply," Vaid said while replying to a question about the recruitment of a new LeT 'chief' in the Valley. He urged local militants to renounce the path of violence and join the mainstream. "Be it elders, religious leaders, parents or political leaders, I appeal to all to help children distinguish between the good and bad. One must tread upon the right path and fulfil the mission of life. Bloodshed won't yield anything," he added.

Vaid said the J&K Police have recently rescued 60 youths from militancy and counselled them. "We're counselling out of militancy all those boys whose cases are brought to our notice. They are our kids and we don't want them to go the wrong way," said the DGP, adding that there are clear instructions to the SFs to give a chance to those militants who are ready to surrender. Attempts are being made to bring the youths back into the mainstream. Security personnel are trying to engage them so that they remain away from drugs and militancy, said Vaid.

Non-violent
September 19

Sainik Colony office / Jammu District

The NIA arrested two LeT militants, who were close associates of dreaded Pakistani militant Bahadur Ali, and had been helping LeT cadres to infiltrate into the Indian territory from the LoC in Baramulla and Kupwara Districts. The two militants, identified as Zahoor Ahmad Peer and Nazir Ahmad Peer were on NIA radar for helping Bahadur Ali and other cadre of the LeT outfit but since their full identity and address was not known to Ali, the NIA had to work a lot to identify and arrest them. Sources said that both the militants were called for interrogation by the NIA officers at their Sainik Colony office in Jammu District and immediately taken into custody as they turned out to be the same persons, who had figured in the interrogation of Bahadur Ali. The NIA is expected to shift both the militants to New Delhi on September 20 for detailed interrogation after taking their transit remand from a Court in Jammu.

Non-violent
October 11

Hajin area / Bandipora District

Two Army personnel and two LeT militants were killed while three SFs personnel were injured in an encounter between SFs and militants at Hajin area of Bandipora District. The slain LeT militants were identified as Ali Bhai and Nasrullah. "Terrorists opened fire on a joint party of 13 RR of Army and SOG of Jammu and Kashmir Police laying siege to Rakh (Paribal) area of Hajin today morning following inputs about the presence of about eight terrorists in the area," Defence spokesperson based in Srinagar said. "As the forces were closing in, the hiding terrorists fired upon them around 5 am, resulting in injuries to jawans. Two Garud personnel were martyred in the action. They were operating with the Army for operational experience and training," he said, adding, "Two terrorists were also gunned down and their weapons recovered."

Violent
October 14

Litter village / Pulwama District

Two LeT militants, including its 'district commander', Waseem Ahmad Shah alias Abu Usama Bhai and his associate Nisar Ahmad Mir were killed in an encounter, while a civilian was killed in the clashes that followed in Litter village in Pulwama District. According to sources, SFs cordoned off Litter village in after inputs about the presence of militants in the village. The militants were hiding in the house of former militant Pintu Malik and when the SFs encircled the house, the holed up militants opened fire on the SFs resulting in an encounter lasted for over an hour in which two militants were killed.

Violent
October 28

J&K

A J&K Police Constable, identified as Isfaq Ahmad Dar is suspected to have joined the militant LeT in what could be the third such switch by a security personnel in the Valley this year. Police ordered a probe after Isfaq Ahmad Dar, last week announced on social media that he has joined the LeT, a Pakistan-based militant outfit blamed for several terror attacks in India. A photograph of Dar holding an AK-47 assault rifle was also widely circulated on social media and messaging apps in the Valley over the past few days. "There are reports we are trying to confirm. The matter is being investigated," State Police chief SP Vaid said on October 28. He added that police are yet trying to "know the facts".

Non-violent
November 1 Handwara / Kupwara District

SFs launched an operation against top LeT 'commander' Abu Maaz in Handwara in Kupwara District. SoG of Handwara Police and 21 RR of Army in the evening cordoned off Harnipora Shailhall in Handwara after reports that Abu Maaz was present in the area. However, the operation was later called off as he was not found in the village.

Non-violent
November 2 Lazibal /Anantnag District

At least five CRPF personnel were injured in a militant attack on the vehicle of SFs in Anantnag District. Militants opened fire on the vehicle of the 96 Battalion CRPF at Lazibal in Anantnag District at 8.30 am, a Police official said. He said three CRPF jawans (troopers) received bullet injuries while two others were injured after getting hit by broken glass panes of the vehicle. An operation has been launched to track down the assailants. LeT militant outfit has claimed responsibility of the attack.

Violent
November 2 Gulmarg sector / Baramulla

Army's 19 Mahar posted at Asha Post in Gulmarg sector during searches of forest area at Kuthyali Dokh in Drung area of Tangmarg busted a militant hideout and recovered huge cache of arms and ammunition. The recovery included one AK 47 rifle, 147 rounds of AK ammunition, one Pistol, three hand grenades, six Wireless sets, one UBGL thrower, one UBGL, one MLG round, one stamp of Jammu and Kashmir LeT unit, stamp of District 'commander' LeT, one solar panel and one walki talki.

Non-violent
November 3 Shopian District

Shopian Police have identified the killers of Gowhar Ahmad Bhat, President of BJYM, youth wing of the ruling BJP, who was killed in Shopian District on November 2, as Hamas, resident of Pakistan, Umer Nazir, resident of Malikgund and affiliated to the LeT, Ishfaq Thoker, resident of Paderpora and Zubair Turay, resident of Shopian and affiliated to the HM. Police have announced cash reward for the persons whose information will lead to their arrest or killing.

Non-violent
November 17

South Kashmir

College student and footballer Arshid Majid Khan 'surrendered' before security agencies, barely days after he had joined the LeT, officials said. His surrender was seen as a whiff of fresh air in South Kashmir which has witnessed large-scale recruitment of local youths by militants in the past. Unofficial estimates have put the figure of such youths at nearly 150 since July 2016. IGP, Muneer Khan said: "The question is has he surrendered. I said no. The question was has he been apprehended, I said no. Again at this time also, I would say neither has he surrendered nor has been apprehended. He has come to the family on his own. He went on his own to see how it tastes, he came on his own. And, of course, his father, friends were instrumental in bringing him back", he said. LeT, however, said that Majid Arshad Khan was permitted to leave for his home on the request of his mother, since he was the only guarantor to his household.

Non-violent
November 18

Hajin area / Bandipora District

Six LeT militants including the nephew of 26/11 Mumbai attacks mastermind Zaki-ur Rehman Lakhvi, and a Garud commando of the IAF were killed in an encounter at Chandergeer village in Hajin area of Bandipora District. SFs cordoned off and launched a search operation in Chandergeer village in Hajin area of the District, which resulted in an encounter with the militants hiding there. "Six terrorists have been killed in an ongoing encounter at Hajin," Srinagar-based Defence spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia said. An IAF Garud commando was killed and an Army soldier was also injured in the encounter, he said. "Nephew of Mumbai Attacks mastermind Zaki-ur Rehman Lakhvi was among six terrorists killed in J&K encounter," said DGP J&K, S. P. Vaid.

Violent
November 19

Bandipora District

Indian Army said that the top leadership of the Pakistan-backed LeT in the Kashmir valley has been wiped out with the killing of six militants in Bandipora District and 180 militants have been killed this year while 200 are still active. GOC of Srinagar-headquartered 15 Corps, Lieutenant General J S Sandhu, said in Srinagar during a press conference: "With the elimination of six of its commanders yesterday, the top leadership of LeT in the Valley has been wiped out."

Statement
November 20

UN

Declaring that Afghanistan's stability and security was tied to that of the entire region, India has demanded an end to the 'Special Terrorist Zones' in Pakistan where militant outfits, the LeT and JeM are protected. "It is imperative to address the support that terrorist organisations like the Taliban, Haqqani Network, Islamic State (IS), al Qaeda and its designated affiliates such as the LeT and JeM operating outside the fabric of international law, draw from outside Afghanistan," India's Deputy Permanent Representative, Tanmaya Lal told the UN General Assembly during a debate on the situation in that country. "The Special Terrorist Zones, safe havens and sanctuaries beyond Afghanistan's border must end," he added, without naming Pakistan while the context made clear the country he was referring to.

Statement
November 21

Zurhama area /Kupwara District

The SFs cordoned off Gujarpati forest area in the Zurhama area of Kupwara District following specific inputs about the presence of two to three militants there. As the SFs launched the searches, the hiding militants opened fire on troops, triggering an encounter in which, an Army soldier was killed and two soldiers were injured. The operation was going on till the time of reporting. Sources said that it was a group of LeT militants headed by one Saifullah which was on its way towards LoC to receive a group of infiltrators.

Violent
November 21

Handwara / Kupwara District

Three LeT militants were killed in an encounter in the Magam area of Handwara in Kupwara District. The SFs launched a cordon-and-search operation at Khar Mohalla in Magam after inputs about presence of a militant group in the area. As the SFs intensified the search operation, the militants hiding in the area opened fire, triggering an encounter. Three militants were killed during the gunfight and their bodies were recovered along with three AK rifles.

Violent
November 24

Magam area / Kupwara District

SFs arrested a Pakistani militant belonging to the LeT from Magam area in Kupwara District. The official said that the arrested militant, whose identity has not been disclosed, is being interrogated.

Non-violent
November 25

Kupwara District

Army in the night arrested a Pakistani militant belonging to the LeT from a forest area in Kupwara District. "A Pakistani LeT militant was apprehended in a joint operation by Army and JKP in Magam forests. One AK-47 along with ammunition was also seized from him", an unnamed Defence spokesman said.

Non-violent
November 27

Handwara area / Kupwara District

The NIA took the custody of a Pakistani LeT militant who was arrested along the LoC in Handwara area in Kupwara District recently. The militant, identified as Mohammed Amir Awan, was arrested by the Army on November 24 during an intensive search launched after an encounter in the area on November 21 that left three LeT militants killed. One soldier was also killed during the encounter. The matter was transferred to the NIA which registered a case and took the custody of the terrorist. During interrogation, the militant identified himself as Mohammed Amir Awan whose code in the Lashkar terror group was 'Abu Haamaz', the officials said. The terrorist told his interrogators that he hailed from Bardiya town of the port-city Karachi in Pakistan and was recruited and trained by the terror group. He was pushed into the Kashmir valley from PoK for carrying out attacks on various important installations in the Valley, the officials said.

Non-Violent
November 28

Jammu and Kashmir

The NIA has unearthed major LeT plot hatched by associates of recently released terrorist in Pakistan, Hafiz Saeed to rattle Jammu and Kashmir with a series of terror strikes with the arrest of Pakistani LeT militant, Mohammad Amin Awan alias Abu Hamaaz of Pakistan's port city of Karachi. Hamaaz was captured alive by Army on the LoC in Handwara area of Kupwara District on November 24, when his three Pakistani associates were killed by the troops in an encounter. Hamaaz, who hailed from Karachi's Bardiya town, has turned out to be a "very rare catch" for the NIA as he has spilled lots of LeT plans not only pertaining to create turmoil in Jammu and Kashmir but also about plots being hatched by the outfit in Pakistan and PoK to send more militants into the Valley to compensate for the heavy losses suffered this year with the killing, arrest and surrender of large number of militants. Sources said Hamaaz was "close confidant" of the associates of Hafiz Saeed, who had recently walked free in Pakistan, and had been pushed into this side along with other militants by them. Meanwhile, a New Delhi court sent Abu Hamaaz to 10-day custody of the NIA.

Non-Violent
November 29

Khanabal / Anantnag District

A militant, identified as Altaf Ahmad Sheikh, resident of Qoimoh area of Kulgam District, who was wanted by SFs, surrendered before surrendered before Army's 1 RR in Khanabal in Anantnag District. Altaf was a close confidante of LeT and HM militants and he was activated as OGW by slain HM Dawood Sheikh who was gunned down by SFs in March 2016. Sources said that Altaf had surrendered last on March 4, 2016, but then again became the OGW on November 25 last year. He was involved in weapon snatching from a constable Zahid Ali on September 11, 2015. Sources said that the OGW is also a notorious stone-pelter and also leader of other stone-pelters in Qoimoh area.

Non-Violent
November 30

Sopore area / Baramulla District

In an encounter in North Kashmir's Sopore area in Baramulla District, a LeT 'divisional commander' was killed and two Army personnel were injured. Sources said that 9 Para of Army laid an ambush in Zaloora forests of Sopore in Baramulla District, acting specific information regarding the presence of militants in Kumar Mohalla Sagipora, Sopore. One Para-commando was injured in the ambush and militants fled but were again trapped by the SFs in Bomai area of Sopore. Army's 22 RR and SOG Sopore cordoned off Bomai Sopore and in an encounter killed a LeT commander while one Army jawan was injured. "During searches, terrorist hiding in a Nallah near water point of Kumar Mohalla, Sagipora fired upon the joint search party. The fire was retaliated in which the said terrorist was gunned down. The terrorist was later identified as Muzzamil from Pakistan affiliated with LeT outfit, commander of North Kashmir. One AK rifle, 5 AK magazines, 124 AK rounds, one UBGL, 5 UBGL rounds and other ammunition were recovered from the encounter site", the spokesman added.

Violent
December 1

Handwara area / Kupwara District

Police arrested a LeT militant in Handwara area of Kupwara District. Police said that Affaq Ahmad Bhat alias Abu Huraira, a resident of Panditpura, was arrested by Handwara Police after it acted on specific information about his presence in the village. Police said that Bhat was involved in providing logistic support to militant Abu Maaz of the LeT. "Handwara police has also busted two hideouts maintained by the said OGW Affaq," said Police. "Huge cache of ammunition including one pistol, two pistol magazines, 11 pistol rounds, two wireless sets, one YSMS [pairing of smartphones with radio sets to send out short SMSs] set, four mobile sets, one UBGL thrower, one UBGL grenade, two AK magazines, 105 AK rounds, two compass, one Binocular, one Wire cutter, five battery chargers, 48 batteries, first aid (Made in Pakistan), medicines /cotton bandage, two cooking flames, one perfume, two maps, one jacket, two bags and cosmetics etc were recovered from the hideouts", Police said.

Non-violent
December 4

Qazigund area / Kulgam District

Two militants and a soldier were killed in the Qazigund area of Kulgam District. A group of militants belonging to LeT fired upon Army's patrolling party at Bounigam in Qazigund on the National Highway, leaving three soldiers injured. One of the injured soldiers died later. The militants fled away after carrying out the attack and took shelter inside a building near the National Highway. As the SFs intensified searches to trace out the hiding militants, they were fired upon, triggering an encounter. The firing between the two sides continued throughout the day. The SFs finally blasted off the building in which the militants had taken refuge. After searches of the debris were conducted following end of gun fire, two bodies of militants were recovered. However, they were not identified as yet. One of them is believed to be a local and another foreigner. One civilian was injured during the encounter. Another civilian was injured in pellet firing on stone pelters who had gathered in the area and pelted stones on the SFs who were conducting operation.

Violent
December 5

Qazigund / Kulgam District

IGP, Kashmir, Muneer Ahmad Khan, stated that three bodies of militants were recovered from the debris of the building at Qazigund in Kulgam District where an encounter had taken place on December 4. [SATP had earlier reported that two militants were killed in the encounter.] He said that two of the slain militants were identified as Furqan and Maviya. Furqan was 'divisional commander' of LeT and had replaced Ismail in South Kashmir and was responsible for the recent attacks carried out by LeT in South Kashmir. The third killed militant was a local and was identified him as Yawar. Khan said that Yawar and Maviya were involved in the in the July 10, 2017, Amarnath yatra (pilgrimage) bus attack in Anantnag District in which eight pilgrims were killed and 19 others injured and almost all the militants involved in that attack are now dead. He further added one of the militant, identified as Rashid Ahmad Allai, arrested from Janglat Mandi maternity hospital in Anantnag District on December 4 (SATP had reported the arrest earlier) along with a Chinese pistol and live cartridges had joined the Yawar group of LeT. "Investigation conducted so far have established that he was with the three militants at the encounter site and managed to escape", Police said.

Violent
December 5

Jammu and Kashmir

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat asserted that there will be no let up in the operations against militants in Kashmir. "Operations in Kashmir are going on continuously and we are trying to bring an improvement in the situation in the Valley. Such operations will go on," Rawat stated. Reacting to former Pakistan President General (retd) Parvez Musharraf's statement welcoming an alliance with JuD chief and founder of LeT Hafiz Saeed for the 2018 general election in Pakistan, he said, "If they want to come into the system then why not the terrorist organisations which are present this (Indian) side participate and be part of the electoral process. How the neighbouring country deals with terrorist organisations is their matter but we will keep raising this," Rawat said. We do not want that such organisations are promoted, he added.

Statement
December 9

Handwara area / Kupwara District

A LeT militant was arrested by SFs during operation in Handwara area of Kupwara District. Police said that on a specific input, Handwara Police, 30RR and 92 CRPF launched a joint operation and arrested one OGW of LeT identified as Rayaz Ahmed Khan alias Bita Khan alias Baba, son of Abdul Rashid Khan from his home at Hajin in Handwara area. SFs also destroyed one hideout in his house and recovered one AK 56 rifle, 2 magazines, 25 rounds of AK 56, one spare butt and one wire cutter from the hideout.

Violent
December 10

Pulwama District

Officials said that that suspected LeT operative Abdul Nayeem Sheikh, who was arrested from Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) in November 2017, had spent some time in south Kashmir and pictured some Army installations. Sheikh, a resident of Aurangabad in Maharashtra, was on the radar of central intelligence agencies for quite some time before he was arrested with the help of Uttar Pradesh Police in the last week of November. During interrogation, Sheikh disclosed that he had stayed in Pulwama, moved to various places with the help of one Malik and even photographed some Army and Para-military camps, the officials claimed. Sheikh, who was wanted in connection with a 2014 terror case and was since on the run, told investigators that some important power projects and railway tracks in the Valley were surveyed, they said.

Non-Violent
December 11

Handwara area / Kupwara District

Giving details about the encounter at Unisoo village in Handwara area of Kupwara District in which three militants were killed, Police said, that acting on a specific input, SFs launched a cordon and search operation in Mir Mohalla. "During search operation, terrorists hiding in the house of Abdul Hamid Mir fired upon the joint search party," an unnamed Police official said, adding that the fire was retaliated, ensuing an encounter. "Three unidentified terrorists of LeT were killed in this encounter. The identity of these terrorists is being ascertained. Three AK rifles along with other ammunition were recovered from the encounter site," the spokesman added. Police said that five members of the family got trapped inside a house and one member believed to be daughter-in-law of the house owner tried to escape during which she sustained wounds and subsequently died. Soon after the encounter, protests broke out at Unisoo against the 'killing' of the woman, identified as Mysara.

Violent

 

 

 

 

 

 
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