Srinagar, Jul 22: Soon after the deadly terrorist attack in Anantnag, security forces launched one of the largest coordinated counter-terror operations, detaining more than 2,500 suspected Over Ground Workers (OGWs) across Kashmir for questioning and verification.
The district-wide operation was carried out by Jammu and Kashmir Police with support from other security agencies following intelligence inputs about the presence of terror support networks.
Simultaneous raids were conducted in Srinagar, Anantnag, Baramulla, Budgam, Shopian, Ganderbal, Kupwara, Handwara, Sopore, Bandipora, Kulgam and several other areas.
A police spokesperson said the operation aims to identify and dismantle networks allegedly involved in providing logistical support, transportation, shelter, communication and financial assistance to terrorist groups.
He said nearly 700 suspected OGWs were detained in Srinagar alone, while more than 200 were taken into preventive custody in Budgam. In Ganderbal, over 100 suspects were detained during coordinated raids carried out at multiple locations. Similar operations were conducted in other districts, taking the total number of detentions across the Valley to over 2,500.
The detained persons are being questioned in accordance with law to ascertain whether they had any role in activities prejudicial to the security of the Union Territory, the spokesperson said, describing the exercise as intelligence-driven and preventive in nature.
In Budgam, police said those detained included suspected OGWs, miscreants, orbit members of JKNOP and persons involved in NDPS-related cases. Police said the operation was launched to prevent any attempt to disturb public order and maintain a strong security environment in the district.
Alongside the raids, security measures were strengthened across Kashmir. Additional forces were deployed at vulnerable locations, vehicle checking was intensified, special nakas were established on key roads, area domination patrols were increased, and frisking was stepped up across the Valley.
A senior police officer said intelligence-based operations would continue in close coordination with security and intelligence agencies to eliminate the terror support ecosystem and prevent any attempt to disrupt peace.
Police reiterated their commitment to maintaining law and order, preserving communal harmony and ensuring the safety of citizens. The spokesperson said further legal action would be taken on the basis of evidence emerging during the ongoing investigation and verification process.
