- Five Hizbul Mujahideen militants, including ‘commander’ Farooq Ahmad Bhat, were killed in Kulgam, South Kashmir.
Relevance : GS 3(Internal Security )
- Bhat was active since 2015 and played a key role in radicalizing youth and reviving terrorism in the region.
- The operation lasted around six hours and resulted in two security personnel being injured.
- The militants were hiding in the Kader area when security forces received a tip-off about their presence.
- The forces made contact with the militants around 3:30 a.m., leading to a gun battle.
- Five AK-47 rifles, two grenades, 20 magazines, and ammunition were recovered from the site.
- The Army sees Bhat’s killing as a significant success in counter-terrorism efforts.
- Bhat had 37 First Information Reports filed against him for his involvement in militant attacks.
- Brigadier Anirudh Chauhan praised local residents for their cooperation and providing critical information.
