A major counter-terror operation is underway in Jammu and Kashmirs Shopian district, where security forces have surrounded two suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists believed to be hiding inside a dense orchard in the Meemandar area. The operation entered its second day on Sunday, with troops tightening the security cordon to prevent the suspects from escaping.

The operation was launched after security agencies received specific intelligence inputs about the presence of militants in the area. Officials said a joint team comprising the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) swiftly cordoned off the location and began an extensive search operation. According to officials, the suspected terrorists were initially detected through surveillance in the orchard. When security personnel advanced towards the location, the militants allegedly opened fire, triggering a brief exchange of gunfire. Since then, security forces have maintained a tight cordon while deploying additional personnel to seal all possible escape routes.

Armys specialised counter-insurgency unit, Victor Force, has also been deployed to strengthen the operation. The orchard and surrounding areas have been illuminated during the night to prevent the terrorists from taking advantage of darkness or dense vegetation to flee. Search teams continue to comb the area carefully due to the difficult terrain and thick foliage.

Officials have not confirmed any casualties so far, and no terrorist has been neutralised at the time of writing. The search operation remains active as security personnel continue to monitor the area closely. Authorities have advised residents of nearby villages to stay away from the operational zone and cooperate with security personnel until the area is declared safe. Movement in parts of the affected region has been restricted as a precautionary measure.

Shopian has witnessed several intelligence-based counter-terror operations in recent years due to its challenging terrain, which includes orchards and forested patches often used by militants for concealment. Security agencies have increasingly relied on surveillance technology and actionable intelligence to track and disrupt militant activity in South Kashmir. The latest operation comes as security forces continue their sustained efforts to dismantle terrorist networks operating in Jammu and Kashmir. Officials said further details will be shared once the operation concludes.

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