In a major crackdown on anti-national elements, the Jammu and Kashmir Police on Friday arrested two key accused, including a government employee, for allegedly facilitating terrorist activities in the mountainous Kishtwar district.
Several terror-related incidents have occurred in the district in recent years, with the movement of terrorists frequently reported in forested areas.
Police said the accused provided logistical support to terrorists after they infiltrated Indian territory through the International Border or the Line of Control. The duo allegedly assisted terrorists operating in the Dachan area of Kishtwar. An FIR under Sections 13, 16, 18, 19, 20 and 23 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), along with Sections 7/27 of the Arms Act, had already been registered at Kishtwar police station.
Kishtwar Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Naresh Singh said that following a meticulous investigation, police arrested Tariq Ahmed Ginoo, a Forest Department employee, and Mohammad Iqbal, both residents of Tander village in Dachan.
Earlier, Muneer Ahmed and Mashkoor Ahmed, both residents of Chatroo, were also arrested for similar offences.
The SSP said investigations are underway to dismantle the entire support network and bring all those involved to justice through due legal process. “J&K Police reiterates its zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and its support ecosystem. We remain committed to maintaining peace, public order and security in the region,” he said.
Due to its dense forests and rugged mountainous terrain, Kishtwar has witnessed increased terrorist activity over the past few years. Earlier this year, four terrorists were killed by security forces during Operation Trashi-I, which lasted over 30 days.
Police suspect the existence of a network of over ground workers that provides food, shelter and even weapons to infiltrating terrorists operating on the Indian side.
