Jammu and Kashmir Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat on Wednesday confirmed that the terrorist killed in a recent encounter in the Dudu-Basantgarh forests of Udhampur district was a top commander of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit. The slain militant had been operating in the area for the past four years.
Highlighting the ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorism from the region, the DGP emphasized the critical role of public cooperation in maintaining security.
“Anti-terror operations are being carried out continuously. Our recent success in Dudu-Basantgarh, where a senior JeM commander was neutralized, is a significant breakthrough. We will continue our operations until every terrorist is eliminated,” Prabhat told reporters during a visit to the Akhnoor police station.
The terrorist, identified as Haider and code-named Maulvi, was killed on June 26 during a gunfight in Basantgarh. Three of his associates escaped by exploiting the rugged terrain, thick forest cover, and adverse weather conditions.
When asked about the number of active terrorists in the region, the DGP declined to disclose specifics, citing security concerns.
The DGP, accompanied by Inspector General of CRPF Gopal Sharma, IGP Jammu Zone Bhim Sen Tuti, and DIG Jammu-Samba-Kathua range Shiv Kumar, visited the Akhnoor police station to congratulate the team for receiving the ‘Award of Excellence’ from the Ministry of Home Affairs for 2024.
While presenting the award, Prabhat commended the personnel for their strong community engagement and credited public cooperation for the success of a recent operation in the Akhnoor sector.
“Public support is essential. With their cooperation, even the toughest challenges become manageable,” he said, also praising the police force for their effective action against drug trafficking, bovine smuggling, and organized crime.
He specially acknowledged the dedication of then Station House Officer Tariq Ahmed, SDPO Mohan Sharma, and SP Brijesh Sharma for their leadership and performance in 2024. He also extended best wishes to current SHO Sanjeev Chib and SDPO Varinder Gupta to uphold and build on the station’s legacy of excellence.
