Security tightened across north Kashmir

Srinagar, Oct 27: In the aftermath of the attack on the Army in the Butapathri area of Gulmarg in Baramulla district, security has been heightened across north Kashmir while the Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) has been extended in Gulmarg forests and nearby areas.

A top official said that the security agencies have received high-level intelligence “disturbing” inputs, following which security measures have been intensified across the district.

“There are disturbing intelligence inputs from Pattan, Tangmarg, and other areas due to which the security forces are on a high alert. The intelligence inputs seem to be disturbing but this can be a distraction as well,” he said.

The official said frisking at various places had been intensified while patrolling by security personnel has also been increased.

“Unlike the previous weeks, we have increased the patrolling and we are deputing security personnel along with a vehicle to random pockets,” he said.

The official said that the presence of Army personnel has increased in Narbal to Gulmarg road besides other connecting roads like Baba Reshi and Butapathri.

Four persons including two soldiers and two Army porters were killed on Thursday after an Army truck was attacked in the Butapathri area, around 6 km from the tourist destination of Gulmarg.

The Army vehicle was en route to Nagin Post in the Affarwat range.

“The search operation is going on in Gulmarg woods, while an extra alert has been issued. Searches are underway in the Tangmarg area, Shranz Fall, and Butapathri road connecting with Boniyar,” the official said.

Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Baramulla, Muhammad Zaid Malik on Saturday told reporters that based on the evidence collected at the spot, it is believed that three to four militants were involved in the attack.

A top official said that earlier this year, the presence of militants was observed in Gulmarg near the second phase of the Gulmarg Gondola cable car project near Affarwat.

“The move created chaos and all the tourists were rushed to hotels while a search operation was launched as well. The Army and Police jointly launched the CASO in the area. This time an attack was launched from the Butapathri area which has put the security agencies on a high alert,” the official said.