Swift Counter-Terror Success in Shopian: Two LeT Hybrid Militants Surrender in Baskuchan CASO, Weapons Recovered

In a significant operational breakthrough for the security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, a meticulously coordinated Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) was launched in the Baskuchan area of South Kashmir’s Shopian district. The operation was executed by the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Shopian, in close coordination with the 44 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) of the Indian Army and the 178 Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), following credible intelligence regarding terrorist movement in the region.

Acting on specific input, the joint team swiftly cordoned off the area early in the morning. During the search operation, movement was detected in a nearby orchard, confirming the presence of armed terrorists. In what could have escalated into a deadly encounter, the situation was tactically handled by the joint forces. Instead of opening fire immediately, the security personnel engaged in a calculated containment maneuver that led to a peaceful surrender — a rare and strategically significant outcome in counter-insurgency operations in the Valley.

The two individuals who surrendered have been identified as Irfan Bashir and Uzair Salam, both reportedly associated with the banned terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). According to initial reports, the duo were categorized as “hybrid terrorists” — a term used for individuals who operate covertly for terrorist groups while continuing to maintain an outward appearance of civilian life.

The surrender marks an important success for ongoing deradicalization efforts, particularly in South Kashmir, a region that has witnessed frequent militant activity in recent years. Their decision to lay down arms not only saved lives — including their own — but also provided an intelligence breakthrough, potentially aiding ongoing investigations into terrorist networks and logistics in the region.

Significant Recoveries from the Site:

Following their surrender, the joint team recovered a cache of arms, ammunition, and personal items from the suspects. These include:

• 02 AK-56 assault rifles

• 04 magazines compatible with AK-series rifles

• 102 live rounds of 7.62×39mm caliber ammunition

• 02 hand grenades, indicative of planned violent engagement

• 02 utility pouches for ammunition and grenades

• ₹5,400 in Indian currency, suspected to be operational cash

• 01 mobile phone and 01 smartwatch, potentially used for communication and tracking

• 02 packets of biscuits, likely part of field sustenance

• 01 Aadhaar card, aiding in identity verification

All recovered items have been secured as evidence and will undergo forensic examination. Digital devices such as the mobile phone and smartwatch are expected to be analyzed for communication records, location data, and potential links to other operatives.

An FIR has been registered under the relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, Arms Act, and Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), and further investigation is underway to map out the wider network of collaborators and handlers.

Broader Implications:

This operation comes at a time when security forces have intensified counter-terror efforts across the Kashmir Valley, particularly targeting hybrid militants who blend into civilian populations and are activated for specific tasks. The successful surrender of Irfan and Uzair is being hailed not just as a tactical win, but also as a reflection of effective intelligence gathering, coordination among security agencies, and a nuanced operational approach that prioritizes human lives where possible.

Officials stated that efforts will continue to encourage local militants, especially those lured into militancy through online propaganda or coercion, to return to the mainstream. The duo will likely be debriefed over the coming days to extract further information on their handlers, recruitment patterns, and potential targets.

Security forces have reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and order in the region while upholding human rights and providing opportunities for misguided youth to return to a life of dignity.