Security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Anantnag town on Thursday evening after two militants belonging to the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were reportedly spotted moving through a local market.
Following the sighting, Army, Police, and CRPF quick reaction teams were immediately deployed to the area. A large-scale search operation was initiated in Dangarpora and Kazibagh localities of the town to trace the suspects.
According to security officials, one of the militants has been identified as Mohammad Latif Bhat, a resident of Kharewan village in Kulgam district and son of Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat. Intelligence inputs suggest that Latif joined the Lashkar-e-Taiba’s shadow outfit, the Kashmir Revolution Army (KRA), in November this year. A poster circulated by the group lists his joining date as November 17, 2025.
The second militant is believed to be Hanzulla, a Pakistani commander affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba network, officials said.
Security forces have cordoned off several adjoining areas and intensified searches as part of ongoing efforts to flush out militants in south Kashmir.
