The Shopian encounter entered its second day on Sunday as security forces continued a massive anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir after CCTV footage captured two Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists moving through a dense orchard. The operation is centred in the Meemandar area of Shopian, where the movement of the militants was first detected on surveillance cameras. With multiple villages already searched, the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force have tightened the security cordon to prevent any escape during the ongoing Shopian encounter.
Shopian encounter intensifies after CCTV footage emerges
The Shopian encounter gathered momentum after surveillance footage showed the two suspected terrorists moving through the orchard belt on Friday. Security agencies immediately sealed the area, which stretches across seven villages, before launching an extensive search operation.
According to India Today, officials identified the trapped militants as Latif and Zakir, both believed to be associated with Lashkar-e-Taiba. According to security personnel, the two opened fire when troops moved closer, leading to an exchange of gunfire that continues to shape the Shopian encounter.
The Army’s Victor Force has deployed additional personnel around the orchard while maintaining surveillance over possible escape routes hidden by thick summer foliage.
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Dense orchards pose challenge for security forces
According to India Today, officials said the orchard terrain has made the Shopian encounter particularly challenging. During the summer season, the dense canopy offers natural cover that militants often use to evade security forces.
The additional deployment has focused on sealing every possible exit from the orchard while keeping the area illuminated during the night to reduce visibility advantages for the terrorists.
Both Latif and Zakir are residents of Kulgam district in south Kashmir. Security records indicate Zakir joined Lashkar-e-Taiba in 2024, while Latif became part of the outfit last year.
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Security agencies continue crackdown on terror network
The Shopian encounter comes as the Centre has stepped up its crackdown on terror organisations operating from across the border. The Ministry of Home Affairs recently designated 23 individuals linked to groups including Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Jamaat-ud-Dawa and The Resistance Front as terrorists under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act.
Officials believe neutralising local operatives remains critical to weakening recruitment networks and disrupting logistical support for terror outfits in Jammu and Kashmir.
