Escape routes sealed, more troops in J&K: Army's hunt for 2 LeT terrorists enters Day 2

EditionININUSGCCEnglishEnglishहिन्दीमराठीಕನ್ನಡதமிழ்বাংলাമലയാളംతెలుగుગુજરાતીWeatherSign InTOIToday's ePaperLive EditionININUSGCCEnglishEnglishहिन्दीमराठीಕನ್ನಡதமிழ்বাংলাമലയാളംతెలుగుગુજરાતીWeatherSign In TOIToday's ePaperLive NewsSealing escape routes, deploying more troops in J&K: Army's hunt for 2 LeT terrorists in Shopian enters Day 2Sealing escape routes, deploying more troops in J&K: Army's hunt for 2 LeT terrorists in Shopian enters Day 2TOI News Desk / TIMESOFINDIA.COM / Jul 05, 2026, 13:28 ISTCommentsShareAA+Text SizeSmallMediumLarge Area cordoned off in search of 2 LeT terrorists NEW DELHI: An anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district entered its second day on Sunday, with security forces tightening the cordon around a dense orchard and deploying additional personnel to block all possible escape routes for two suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists.The operation, launched on Saturday in the Meemandar area following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of militants, continued overnight as the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force maintained a multi-layered cordon.

Officials said the Army's specialised counter-insurgency unit, Victor Force, has deployed additional troops and illuminated the orchard to prevent the two trapped terrorists from escaping under the cover of darkness or dense foliage, reported PTI.The suspects, identified as Latif and Zakir, are local residents of Kulgam district and are believed to be affiliated with the banned LeT. According to officials, Zakir joined the outfit in 2024, while Latif became associated with the group last year.

The duo was first spotted through surveillance cameras in the orchard on Friday. When security forces closed in on their location, the terrorists allegedly opened fire, triggering a gunfight. No casualties have been reported so far.

Officials said the dense summer foliage in the orchard has complicated surveillance, offering natural cover that militants often exploit to slip through security cordons. Additional deployments have therefore been made to seal potential escape routes as search operations continue.Shopian has historically served as a key transit corridor linking south Kashmir with central Kashmir and the Pir Panjal region.

Get the latest India news and live updates. Download the TOI App.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide.

With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most."Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideos8 Officials Suspended After Books Allegedly Glorifying Separatists : J&K School Book RowArmy, J&K Police And CRPF Surround Two LeT Terrorists In Shopian As Gunfight ContinuesLove Across The LoC: PoK Youth Sent Back Home After Court Accepts He Crossed Border To Meet BelovedMamata Calls TMC Rebels 'Traitors', Dares Rivals To 'Kill Me' As Party Split DeepensKedarnath-Badrinath Donation Row: Cong Questions BJP, Temple Committee Launches ProbeJ&K School Book Controversy: BJP, Civil Society Demand Probe Over Book Glorifying SeparatistsHAPS Explained: How India's New High-Altitude Surveillance Aircraft Will Boost Defence CapabilitiesDelhi Court Reserves Order On Umar Khalid, Sharjeel Imam's Fresh Bail Pleas In Riots CaseSTORY GOVT DEBUNKS E20 FUEL MYTHS 10-POINT CLARIFICATIONFresh Blow To Mamata Camp As Bengal Chief Quits During Intensifying TMC Power Struggle123Photostories8 things children secretly wish parents knewFoods Indians eat today that actually arrived from other countries: 8 everyday staples with global originsEx-Microsoft executive coach shares 5 phrases to easily disagree with your boss, claims they earn respect and trustWhy rainy days create some of childhood's happiest memories, according to psychologyEver wondered why every loaf of bread has two end slices?

Here's the real reasonWatch your skin for kidney disease signs5 simple habits for heart that can actually protect your arteries and prevent plaque build upShould you eat breakfast within an hour of waking up? Experts reveal the truth behind the popular morning rule12 Indian fruits ranked from highest to lowest proteinLiver cancer doesn't always announce itself: The early symptoms many people miss123Hot PicksNHL Trade RumorHarrison ButkerTaylor and Travis Wedding PhotosIndia Passport Ranking SlipsBSUSC applicationsMumbai rainDelhi MurderBrittany MahomesTrumpTop TrendingNHL TradeDelhi rainBrittany MahomesFIFA World Cup 2026Mamata BanerjeeBengal