Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) [India] : Security forces neutralised three terrorists in an intense encounter that is still underway in the Nader area of Tral in Awantipora, Jammu and Kashmir, confirmed Inspector General of Police (Kashmir Zone) Vidhi Kumar Birdi on Thursday.
“Based on specific intelligence inputs regarding terrorist movement in the region, a joint cordon-and-search operation was launched. The operation led to a gunfight with the terrorists. So far, three bodies have been observed,” said IGP Birdi. He added that the identities and affiliations of the deceased terrorists will be confirmed once the operation concludes.
The Kashmir Zone Police also took to social media platform X to share the update: “Three #terrorists have been neutralised in the Tral #encounter. Identification & affiliation being ascertained. Search operation in progress. Further details shall follow.”
The Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF launched the operation early Thursday morning following credible intelligence. During the cordon, the terrorists opened heavy fire upon being challenged, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire.
The Indian Army’s Chinar Corps confirmed the developments through a post on X, stating, “Three hardcore terrorists have been eliminated in the ongoing Operation at Nader, Awantipora. Identity of terrorists is being ascertained.”
This operation comes in the wake of the recent Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 lives, including a Nepali national. In response, Indian security forces launched Operation Sindoor, targeting terror infrastructure across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK). Nearly 100 terror operatives were eliminated, with key strikes on Jaish headquarters in Bahawalpur and Lashkar’s training base in Muridke.
IGP Birdi, when asked if those neutralised in Tral were linked to the Pahalgam attack, stated, “The operation is ongoing. We will share details on identity and possible links after it concludes.”
The encounter highlights the Indian forces’ intensified campaign to dismantle the terror network operating in the Kashmir region, following the deadly attack in Pahalgam.