SRINAGAR: J&K Police on Friday claimed to have arrested a “terrorist associate” affiliated with the proscribed Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit during an anti-terror operation in Awantipora in south Kashmir’s Pulwama district. Based on information obtained from the suspect, troops busted a terrorist hideout and recovered arms and ammunition from the spot.Terming the development a “major success against the terror network”, a senior police officer said a joint team of the Army’s 42 RR, CRPF’s 180Bn, and J&K Police had launched a cordon-and-search operation based on intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in Awantipora. While combing the area, the troops arrested the JeM associate, identified as Nazir Ahmed Ganai. Police said Ganai was involved in providing logistical support and facilitating the transportation of arms and ammunition to JeM operatives active in Tral and Awantipora areas.“Based on his disclosure during sustained interrogation, a terrorist hideout located in the orchards belonging to the accused was uncovered. Security forces seized two hand grenades, one detonator, and explosive-like material from the spot and destroyed the hideout in the presence of an executive magistrate,” the officer said.
