Pahalgam Terror Attack: The brutal terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22 not only shook the nation but also posed a major challenge for security forces in gathering intelligence. According to sources in the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the attack was part of a long-planned strategy carried out by four terrorists and their local collaborators (OGWs). Among the four terrorists, two were Pakistani, named Musa and Ali.
Sources indicate that the terrorists, with the help of their local contact, arrived in Pahalgam on April 15. They then conducted reconnaissance of several crowded and strategically sensitive locations in the area. Their goal was to cause maximum damage and attract international attention.
How the Reconnaissance Was Conducted & Locations Chosen?
Before launching the attack, the terrorists had scouted several areas in Jammu and Kashmir. The first area they considered was the Aru Valley. However, due to the presence of a security forces camp, they rejected this option. The second location was an amusement park near Aru Valley, but this was also discarded due to the relatively low crowd. They also considered targeting Betab Valley on the route to the Amarnath Yatra, where there was a large crowd. However, the heavy presence of additional security forces made the terrorists reconsider their plan.
Why Baisaran Valley Was Chosen?
Baisaran Valley, located in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, is a popular tourist hotspot, though it is somewhat separate from the main Amarnath Yatra route. The terrorists chose this location for their attack. After conducting reconnaissance on April 19, they instructed their OGW to reach the valley by 2 PM on April 22. The attack began at 2:28 PM, resulting in the tragic deaths of 26 innocent people.
Search Operation and Leads So Far?
Following the Pahalgam attack, security forces engaged in two encounters with the terrorists in the forests of Kokernag and Dooru. In an attempt to flush out the terrorists, security forces set parts of the forest on fire, but so far, only two terrorists have been spotted.
