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Updated 14 May 2025 at 06:47 IST

Operation Keller: 3 LeT Terrorists Killed During Encounter With Security Forces In J&K's Shopian

A massive manhunt was launched in Shopian following credible inputs about presence of terrorists.

Reported by: Moumita Mukherjee
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Operation Keller: 3 terrorists eliminated
Operation Keller: 3 terrorists eliminated | Image: X

Jammu: The forces have successfully eliminated three Lashkar terrorists in Jammu & Kashmir's Shopian after an encounter broke out in the Shukroo Kellar area on Tuesday morning. The security forces launched a massive cordon and search operation based on intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area. IG Kashmir, along with his team, has arrived at the encounter site. Three AK-series assault rifles, seven AK rifle magazines, two hand grenades, ammunition pouches have been recovered from the possesion of the terrorists. 

“Based on specific intelligence of a Rashtriya Rifles Unit about presence of terrorists in general area Shoekal Keller in Shopian, Indian Army launched a search and destroy Operation. During the operation, terrorists opened heavy fire and fierce firefight ensued, which resulted in elimination of three hardcore terrorists,” the Indian Army said in a statement.

Posters To Track Pahalgam Butchers

Meanwhile, the Jammu and Kashmir Police pasted posters across Shopian, offering a Rs 20 lakh cash reward for any actionable information on the Pakistani terrorists involved in the April 22 massacre, which claimed 26 civilian lives. The posters urge locals to assist in tracking down the terrorists, with full confidentiality promised.

Manhunt Launched After Specific Inputs

The counter-insurgency operation began after credible information was received about terrorist movement in the region. A joint team of the Indian Army, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir Police quickly launched a cordon-and-search operation (CASO), which turned into a full-blown gunfight as the hiding terrorists opened fire.

Part of ‘Operation Sindoor’

This latest encounter is part of the ongoing ‘Operation Sindoor’, India’s counteroffensive that was launched after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. A Pakistan-based terror outfit had claimed responsibility for the attack.

Under Operation Sindoor, India carried out precise air strikes targeting terror camps and launch pads in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The operation aimed not only to destroy terror infrastructure but also to send a strong message to Pakistan-backed terror outfits.

Cross-Border Escalation and Ceasefire

Following the strikes, Pakistan retaliated with heavy shelling and drone attacks along the border areas of Punjab, Rajasthan, and Jammu and Kashmir on the night of May 8. The escalation triggered tension along the Line of Control (LoC) and international border.

However, after days of heightened military activity, both countries announced a ceasefire on May 10, following a direct conversation between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan.

READ MORE: ‘Water and Blood Cannot Flow Together’: PM Modi's Stern Message To Pakistan Over Indus Waters | Republic World

PM Modi Lauds Armed Forces

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday addressed the Nation and praised the armed forces for their swift and bold action under Operation Sindoor. He said, “Our forces have dealt a crushing blow to terrorist establishments, not just breaking their infrastructure but also their morale.” He reaffirmed his government's zero-tolerance policy against terrorism and vowed to continue such strong action to ensure national security.

Situation Still Tense in Shopian

As of now, the gunfight in Shopian is still underway. Intermittent firing is being reported from the area, and additional reinforcements have been rushed in to prevent the terrorists from escaping. Mobile internet services in the region may be suspended as a precautionary measure.

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Published 13 May 2025 at 10:54 IST