Chinar Corps Commander visits 34 RR headquarters, lauds collaborative success of Operation Samnu

The Chinar Corps Commander lauded the meticulous planning and execution that led to the elimination of terrorists targeting minority communities in South Kashmir. Lt Gen Rajiv Ghai visited the 34 RR headquarters on Saturday and complimented the troops for Operation Samnu which resulted in the neutralization of five terrorists from Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

The 18-hour operation resulted in the elimination of terrorists Sameer Farooq Sheikh and Danish Hameed, identified in the attack on Kashmiri Pandit Sonu Bhat in Chotigam, Shopian. The operation, marked by precision and coordination, targeted those responsible for the assassination of Sonu Bhat in August 2022. 

Notably, the security forces killed Danish Hameed Thoker from Chakoora, Shopian; Yasir Bilal Bhat, alias Humais from K.G. Raina Wanpoh; Sameer Farooq Sheikh from Chak Cholend, Shopian; Ubaid Ahmad Padder from Chakoora, Shopian; and Hanzal Yaqoob Shah, alias Hanzilla from Rawalpora, Shopian. 

DIG South Kashmir unveils active terror networks 

DIG South Kashmir, Rayees Bhat, shared insights during a joint press conference in Behibagh, Kulgam. He revealed that terrorists Danish Hameed and Hanzal Yaqoob Shah were behind a terror attack on non-local laborers in Gagren, Shopian, causing injuries to three individuals on July 13, 2023. Furthermore, terrorist Sameer Farooq Sheikh played a significant role in enticing local youth to join terrorist ranks and was part of an attack on a minority picket at Heepora Batagund, Shopian.

The encounter took place in the village of Samno, DH Pora area of district Kulgam, based on specific intelligence gathered by the Indian Army. Alongside strategic success, the operation yielded significant recoveries, including four AK-series rifles, four grenades, two pistols, and other incriminating materials. The operation was carried out through a collaborative effort by Kulgam Police and Indian Army’s 34^th Battalion of Rashtriya Rifles. The eliminated terrorists are also reported to have links with The Resistance Front (TRF). 

Over 40 terrorists neutralized this year 

More than 40 terrorists have been neutralized in the Valley this year, according to police reports. The Rashtriya Rifles (RR), the elite Kashmir-based counter-insurgency force formed in 1990, played a crucial role in this operation. Victor Force, a part of RR, oversees security in Valley districts, including Anantnag, Pulwama, Shopian, Kulgam, and Budgam. The 34th Battalion of Rashtriya Rifles draws troops from the JAT Regiment. Furthermore, the operation also involved troops from Army’s 9^th Battalion of Para (Special Forces).  

Operation Samnu underscores the commitment and collaboration of security forces in ensuring the safety and security of the region, marking a significant milestone in the fight against terrorism in Kashmir.