Kashmir: Two terrorists, including a top commander of the Hizbul Mujahideen (HM), were killed in a fierce gunfight with security forces in the Madergam area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Sunday.
A senior police officer confirmed to ITV Network that the encounter began on Saturday afternoon. Acting on intelligence reports about the presence of terrorists, a joint team of forces launched a cordon and search operation in Madergam. As the forces closed in on the suspected hideout, the terrorists opened fire, prompting a retaliatory response and triggering a prolonged gunfight.
During the exchange of fire, two terrorists, both residents of Shopian district, were killed. The terrorists were identified as Aadil Hussain Wani, a prominent HM commander from Kutipora, Shopian, and Faisal Bashir Lone from Kanipora, Shopian. Both were well-known figures in the region, with Aadil Hussain having a particularly notorious reputation.
The elimination of Aadil Hussain Wani, a top HM commander, marks a significant setback for the Hizbul Mujahideen. The group has faced a series of blows over the past few years, losing several key leaders and operatives. Since 2016, the group has seen the deaths of notable commanders such as Burhan Wani, Riyaz Naikoo, Sameer Tiger, and Manan Wani, who were considered the backbone of the organization. This year, security forces have neutralized top commanders of local and foreign terrorists along with their associates throughout Jammu and Kashmir, reflecting ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks in the region.
Aadil Hussain Wani was involved in numerous heinous crimes, including attacks on security forces and civilians. He was also instrumental in the radicalization and recruitment of young locals into terrorist activities. His death, along with Faisal Bashir Lone, is being hailed as a major success by security forces, who believe the duo were planning a significant attack in the area.
The operation led to the recovery of a substantial cache of arms and ammunition, further crippling the operational capabilities of the militant group. The security forces’ swift action and effective coordination played a crucial role in the successful neutralization of these high-profile targets.
The encounter in Madergam underscores the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in Kashmir as they continue their efforts to maintain peace and security in the region. The local population, which has often borne the brunt of the conflict, hopes for sustained peace and stability following the continued crackdowns on terrorist activities.
This latest operation reflects the commitment of the security forces to root out terrorism from the region. With each successful encounter, the forces are sending a strong message to terrorist groups about their determination to restore normalcy in Kashmir.