Subtitle:
After 17 days of tracking, security forces used tech, terrain, and local help to neutralize infiltrators in high-altitude forests
News Report:
In one of the most meticulously coordinated counter-terrorism operations in recent months, Indian security forces successfully eliminated three heavily armed terrorists in the dense, mountainous region of Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The high-stakes mission, which lasted nearly three weeks, involved intelligence intercepts, satellite tracking, and crucial assistance from local nomadic communities.
The breakthrough came after two rare satellite phone signals were intercepted—17 days apart. The first signal hinted at possible infiltration through the high-altitude terrains near Mount Mahadev, a strategic location often used by militants attempting to enter the Valley undetected. When the second signal was picked up, it confirmed movement in the same general region, setting off alarm bells within the security apparatus.
From there, the Indian Army, along with special operations units and J&K Police, launched a carefully planned mission into the dense forest belt. With terrain and altitude working against them, the forces relied on both satellite imagery and real-time surveillance to narrow down potential hideouts.
Interestingly, it was a group of nomadic shepherds (Gujjars and Bakarwals) who first alerted security forces to unusual activity deep within the forest. Their knowledge of the terrain and movement patterns played a vital role in helping the team close in on the suspects without compromising their own position.
After days of trekking and reconnaissance, a final gunfight took place at an altitude of over 10,000 feet near the Mahadev peak. All three militants—suspected to be from Pakistan-based terror outfits—were killed in the encounter. Weapons, satellite communication devices, and maps were recovered from the site, confirming the foreign origin and intent of the group.
The operation has been hailed as a textbook example of synergy between advanced technology, local intelligence, and military precision. Officials say the elimination of this module has prevented a potential wave of attacks planned for southern Kashmir.
Security has been heightened in the region, and search operations continue to rule out the presence of any additional infiltrators.