Srinagar: Authorities in Kashmir have launched an extensive crackdown on militants and their sympathisers following the deadly attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 people, mostly tourists, officials said on Saturday.
Security forces are targeting known militant associates and sympathisers across the Valley to prevent further attacks, officials said. Over the past 48 hours, several houses belonging to militants or their aides have been demolished, and hundreds of overground workers (OGWs) have been detained for questioning.
The security forces have also rounded up hundreds of overground workers (OWGs) and their supporters — mostly in four south Kashmir districts — in their bid to track down the militants who carried out the attack on Tuesday.
“As part of these operations, numerous raids were conducted at various locations throughout the district. Day and night search operations are underway with heightened vigilance. So far, around 175 suspects have been detained for questioning to dismantle the support networks aiding militant activities,” said an official.
He said that to further enhance security, additional Mobile Vehicle Check Points (MVCPs) have been established across the district to monitor suspicious movements and ensure public safety. “Moreover, Cordon and Search Operations (CASOs), ambushes, and intensified patrolling have been launched, particularly in high-density forest areas, to flush out any possible militant presence and secure the district,” he added.
