JAMMU, July 18 : In a significant breakthrough, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have apprehended four Over Ground Workers (OGWs) accused of aiding and abetting terrorists operating in the Doda district. Identified as Mubashir Hussain, Safder Ali, Sajjad Ahmed, and Showket Ali, these individuals were allegedly responsible for providing crucial logistical support to foreign terrorists hiding in the forested areas.
According to official sources, the arrests were made as part of a concerted effort to dismantle the network that sustains terrorists by supplying essentials such as food and shelter. The detained OGWs are currently in custody, with three housed at the District Jail Bhaderwah, and the fourth under police custody pending further investigation.
The crackdown comes in the wake of heightened security measures following recent encounters between security forces and terrorists in the region. Last night, there was an exchange of gunfire reported between Village Defence Guards (VDGs) and suspected terrorists at Kalaan Bhata and Panchan Bhata areas of the Dessa forest. Despite the efforts of security personnel, the terrorists managed to evade capture, leveraging the challenging terrain and darkness to escape.
Meanwhile, in a separate operation in the Sinoo forest area of Gandoh, security forces recovered two explosive shells. This region had witnessed a fierce encounter on June 26, resulting in the elimination of three foreign terrorists and the recovery of a substantial cache of arms, including a US-made M4 carbine.
The Village Defence Guards, integral in assisting security forces in their anti-terror operations, have expressed concerns over their capability to effectively counter heavily armed terrorists. Members of the VDGs have emphasized the urgent need for replacing their bolt-action rifles with more advanced automatic weapons. Despite the challenges posed by their current equipment, the VDGs remain steadfast in their commitment to prevent terrorists from escaping the area alive.
As security forces intensify their efforts to track down remaining terrorists in the region, the situation in Doda district remains tense but under control. Officials have assured that additional arrests of OGWs implicated in terrorist activities are anticipated as the crackdown continues.
The ongoing operations underscore the resolve of security forces to dismantle terror networks and restore peace in the region, while also highlighting the persistent challenges posed by the rugged terrain and the sophisticated weaponry of the terrorists.
