Security Forces Discover Abandoned Militants’ Hideout in South Kashmir

SRINAGAR: Security forces on Tuesday claimed to have discovered an old hideout used by militants in the forest belt of Laisoo Gudder in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district.

The joint operation was carried out by the Army’s 9 Rashtriya Rifles, 18 Battalion Central Reserve Police Force, and Special Operations Group of Kulgam Police following specific intelligence inputs about possible militant infrastructure in the area under the jurisdiction of Police Station Devsar.

After hours of combing operations, search parties located an abandoned structure concealed under foliage and rocks. Officials identified it as a former hideout but confirmed that no fresh recoveries of arms or ammunition were made.

A senior police officer said the discovery was significant despite the absence of weapons. “Every hideout that we identify and dismantle reduces the tactical advantage for militants. Though this shelter had been abandoned for some time, it is a reminder that the forests were once exploited for militant concealment,” he said.

Forensic and technical teams also examined the site to determine when it was last used and by whom. Security agencies believe even defunct shelters can provide clues about routes, networks, and logistics previously employed by militants. (KNT)