Security forces recover cache of arms, explosives in Kupwara

Srinagar, Jan 06: Security forces on Tuesday recovered a cache of arms and explosives during a joint cordon and search operation in the Putusai area falling under Police Station Sogam in north Kashmir’s Kupwara district.

Officials said the operation was jointly launched by troops of 47 Rashtriya Rifles, 31 Battalion BSF and 08 Sector Rashtriya Rifles based on specific inputs.

During the search operation, security personnel recovered a significant quantity of arms and explosives, including 34 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition, 18 rounds of 9 mm ammunition, one pistol magazine, one Pakistan-made grenade, four Chinese grenades and one ammunition pouch.

Officials said the recovery points to attempts to stockpile weapons in the area, which could have been used for militant activities. The seized material has been taken into custody for further examination and legal action.

The operation was carried out in a coordinated manner, and the area was thoroughly searched to rule out the presence of any additional arms, explosives or suspects. Security forces maintained heightened vigilance in the locality throughout the operation.

Police said further investigation has been initiated to trace the source of the recovered arms and to identify those involved in concealing the weapons. The recovery has been described as a significant success in the ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security in north Kashmir. [KNT]