Crackdown in Kashmir on suspects, over 150 detained: IGP Kashmir

Srinagar, Dec 13: Jammu and Kashmir Police, in close coordination with other security and intelligence agencies, have launched a large-scale crackdown against suspected individuals, detaining more than 150 suspected individuals so far.

Senior Police officials said the majority of the detentions have taken place in Srinagar, while similar coordinated operations are underway in several other districts of Kashmir.

The ongoing action is aimed at dismantling the support ecosystem that sustains terror outfits.

Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir, Vidhi Kumar Birdi, confirmed the development, stating that “over 150 suspects have been detained at various locations for questioning.”

He said the operation is focused on identifying individuals who provide logistical, financial, communication, and shelter-related support to terrorists.

According to officials, security forces carried out simultaneous raids at the residential premises of individuals believed to be suspects.

They said that the detainees include former terrorists and other troubled mongers.

Officials said that the current crackdown is part of a sustained security strategy that has been unfolding across the Valley over the past several months.

During this period, Police and security agencies have intensified surveillance, conducted targeted searches, and detained suspects to disrupt terror networks before they can regroup or carry out attacks.

Officials said the focus has increasingly shifted to breaking the “invisible chain” of support that enables terrorists to operate on the ground.

Police sources said that the detentions are largely preventive in nature, and those taken into custody are being questioned to establish their alleged links with terror outfits.

Formal arrests will depend on the outcome of investigations and verification of evidence.

The use of stringent laws, including provisions of the Public Safety Act (PSA), remains a possibility in cases where individuals are found to pose a threat to public order or security.

The intensified security action comes in the wake of Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha’s strong reiteration of the government’s resolve to completely uproot terrorism from Jammu and Kashmir.

On Saturday, the LG issued a stern warning, stating that sympathisers, supporters, and facilitators of terror groups would face the harshest legal consequences.

Officials said that the ongoing operations are aimed at ensuring long-term peace and stability in J&K by choking the logistical and financial lifelines of terrorist organisations.

“The backbone of terrorism is its over-ground network. Unless that network is dismantled, sustainable peace cannot be achieved,” a senior security official said.