SRINAGAR, July 28, 2025 : In a significant counter-terror success, security forces on Monday neutralised three terrorists, including the alleged mastermind of the Pahalgam terror attack, during an encounter in the forested outskirts of Srinagar, officials confirmed.
The joint operation, codenamed ‘Operation Mahadev’, was launched by the Army’s elite Para Commandos and 24 Rashtriya Rifles following intercepts of a satellite phone signal linked to the April 22 Pahalgam massacre.
Key Killed Militants Identified:
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Suleiman alias Asif – Believed to have orchestrated the Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed 26 lives, mostly tourists, at Baisaran meadows.
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Jibran – Accused in the Sonamarg Tunnel attack (October 2024), which left seven people dead, including a doctor.
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Hamza Afghani – Believed to be of foreign origin and part of trans-border terror modules.
Operation Details:
The encounter began around 11:30 AM, when a joint patrol from 4 Para and 24 RR spotted suspicious movement. After a brief but intense firefight, all three militants were killed.
Recovered items include:
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One M4 Carbine
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Two AK-series Rifles
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A cache of ammunition and communication devices
Bodies were handed over to local police for formal identification and legal procedures.
Wider Security Context:
Following the Pahalgam attack, Indian forces launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 to target terror infrastructure across the border. Monday’s success under Operation Mahadev marks a major follow-up blow to the terrorist network.
Inspector General of Police (Kashmir Zone) V.K. Birdi said the encounter was part of a larger operation, with additional reinforcements deployed amid intelligence of more militants in the vicinity.
The Army’s Chinar Corps posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Three terrorists have been neutralised in an intense firefight. Operation continues.”
More search operations are underway in the surrounding forest area to track any remaining militants.
