In a significant counter-terror operation, security forces unearthed a terrorist hideout deep within the forest areas of Surankote in Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. This operation, launched late on Sunday evening, involved the Indian Army in collaboration with the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the J-K Police.

The discovery led to the seizure of five powerful improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and two wireless communication sets, signalling a foiled attempt at orchestrating a major attack in the border district.

Details of the Operation

The operation took place in the Suranthal region of the Marhote area, a rugged and densely forested part of Surankote, known for its strategic sensitivity given its proximity to the Line of Control (LoC).

Security forces launched the joint search mission based on intelligence inputs, and during their sweep, uncovered a well-concealed terrorist hideout. Inside, they discovered:

• Five IEDs ranging in weight from 500 grams to 5 kilograms

• Two wireless communication sets

• Steel buckets and tiffin boxes used for planting the IEDs

• Five packets of urea, a substance commonly used in making explosive devices

• A five-litre gas cylinder

• One binocular

• Three woolen caps, three blankets, trousers, and utensils

These recoveries indicate that the hideout was well-equipped to support terrorists for extended durations, allowing them to plan, coordinate, and possibly execute attacks.

IEDs Destroyed in Controlled Explosion

All five IEDs were ready-to-use and highly dangerous. Two of them were cleverly concealed in steel buckets, while the other three were hidden inside tiffin boxes, a technique often employed by terror outfits to avoid detection.

To ensure public safety and neutralise any immediate threat, the security forces carried out a controlled explosion, destroying the IEDs at the site itself. This quick response likely prevented a potential tragedy, particularly in the sensitive and militarised Poonch district, which has seen a spate of terror-linked activities in recent times.

Clear Intent to Disrupt Peace in the Region

According to security officials, the materials recovered, especially the wireless sets and explosive components, point towards a planned act of violence, which has now been successfully disrupted. The use of communication equipment such as wireless sets suggests that the group intended to maintain constant coordination with handlers across the border or within the region.

The presence of survival gear—blankets, clothing, food utensils—also signals that terrorists intended to remain hidden and operational in the area for long periods.

Heightened Alert and Continued Vigilance

This operation comes at a time when security across Jammu and Kashmir remains on high alert following multiple incidents involving militants trying to infiltrate or plant explosives in civilian areas or near military posts.

The Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police have intensified surveillance and anti-terror operations in the region, especially in districts like Poonch, Rajouri, and Kupwara, which lie close to the LoC and are frequent routes for cross-border infiltration.

Officials stressed that the region’s forested terrain poses a challenge, often used by terrorists to establish temporary hideouts. Such operations are part of a larger strategy to deny terrorists safe havens and dismantle their infrastructure within Indian territory.

Background: Terrorist Activity in Poonch

Over the past few years, Poonch district has become a hotspot for militant activities, with numerous encounters, ambushes, and infiltration bids reported. Its proximity to Pakistan makes it strategically crucial and vulnerable to terrorist logistics operations.

This latest discovery is part of a broader counter-insurgency effort aimed at dismantling sleeper cells and disrupting logistics chains before they can facilitate attacks.

Public Safety Measures and Community Involvement

The operation also serves as a reminder of the importance of community vigilance. Security forces have urged local residents to report any suspicious activity, especially in forested and mountainous areas, where terrorist groups often seek shelter and resupply points.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring public safety and maintaining peace and order in the region, particularly in the lead-up to major festivals and events where public gatherings may be targeted.

Conclusion: Strategic Win Against Terror Infrastructure

The busting of the terrorist hideout in Surankote is a significant achievement for Indian security forces, highlighting their readiness and efficiency in responding to emerging threats. The operation not only neutralised immediate threats in the form of IEDs but also disrupted the logistics and communications capabilities of terrorist operatives in the region.

Such missions continue to play a vital role in preserving peace and ensuring that civilians in border areas like Poonch are safeguarded from the terror menace.

Security forces are expected to continue search operations in surrounding areas, with the aim of completely neutralising any remaining terror infrastructure.

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