A top commander of the Pakistan-based militant outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba, identified as Zakir Ganai, was killed in an encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian on Tuesday, bringing an end to a four-day anti-militancy operation.
According to security officials, Ganai had been trapped in a forested area of Shopian after a cordon-and-search operation was launched based on intelligence inputs. Security personnel from the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and other agencies maintained a tight cordon around the area, despite difficult terrain and challenging weather conditions.
Officials said the operation was carried out carefully to prevent the militant from escaping. After repeated calls to surrender reportedly went unanswered, an exchange of fire took place, during which Ganai was killed. Security forces later recovered weapons and other incriminating material from the encounter site.
Police described Ganai as one of the most wanted militants operating in south Kashmir. He was allegedly involved in several terror-related incidents and was believed to have played a key role in strengthening Lashkar-e-Taiba’s network in the region. Investigators are also examining his suspected links to recent militant activities, although further verification is continuing.
The successful operation is being viewed as a significant achievement for security agencies, which have intensified counter-terror efforts across Jammu and Kashmir in recent months. Officials said sustained intelligence gathering and coordinated operations have helped disrupt militant networks and reduce their operational capabilities.
Following the encounter, security forces launched search operations in the surrounding area to ensure no other militants were hiding nearby. Additional deployments were made as a precaution, while authorities continued monitoring the situation to maintain law and order.
Also Read: Wayanad tunnel cave-in claims 5 lives
