Hundreds detained in Kulgam for questioning as major probe underway into ex-soldier’s killing
Srinagar, Feb 4: A massive operation has been launched in south Kashmir’s Kulgam district following the targeted killing of a former soldier.
The security forces, including the Army, J&K Police, and CRPF, have intensified efforts to track down the attackers, conducting door-to-door searches and questioning scores of locals in the village and adjoining areas.
The attack took place late Monday evening when gunmen fired upon Manzoor Ahmad, a former soldier, in the Behibagh area. He sustained critical injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to his wounds.
Sources said he was shot multiple times, including in the stomach while attempting to shield his niece from the bullets. His wife, Aayeena, and his niece sustained injuries to their legs in the attack.
Following the incident, senior police and Army officials rushed to the spot to assess the situation. The area was immediately cordoned off, and reinforcements were deployed to prevent the attackers from escaping.
In response to the attack, a large-scale search operation was launched in the village and surrounding areas. Security personnel are combing dense orchards, residential areas, and suspected hideouts. Drones and sniffer dogs have also been deployed to assist in tracking down the assailants.
“Multiple teams have been formed to investigate the incident and identify those responsible. We are questioning several individuals and analyzing CCTV footage and other technical evidence,” a senior police officer told Greater Kashmir.
Hundreds of people from the village and adjoining hamlets have been detained for questioning, he said, adding that they suspect that the attackers may have received logistical support from local contacts.
“We are working on multiple leads and are confident that the perpetrators will be brought to justice soon,” the officer added.
“Investigations are at a crucial stage, and we cannot divulge specific details at this point,” Deputy Inspector General of Police (South Kashmir) Javid Iqbal Mattoo told Greater Kashmir. “We are questioning several individuals and working on multiple leads. We are confident that the perpetrators will be brought to justice soon.”
During the past night joint parties carried out raids at several places and tightened security at exit points. One of the senior police officers said that technical surveillance, including CCTV footage analysis is being scanned. “Tens of people from the village and adjoining hamlets have been detained for questioning. We suspect that the attackers received logistical support from local contacts, and efforts are underway to identify and apprehend them,” he said.
“Multiple teams have been formed to investigate the incident and identify those responsible. We are questioning several individuals and analysing CCTV footage and other technical evidence.”
The attack has triggered outrage among locals and political leaders, with demands for swift action against those responsible. In light of the attack, security forces have increased their presence in Kulgam and other sensitive areas of South Kashmir. Additional checkpoints have been set up, and patrolling has been intensified to prevent any further incidents.