POONCH: In a joint operation led by the Army and J&K Police in Jammu division, two hardened terrorists of the Jammu and Kashmir Gaznavi Force (JKGF) were arrested on Saturday along with explosives. They were involved in grenade attacks on religious sites and arms smuggling. Defense spokesperson Lt Col Suneel Bartwal said the operation, carried out on October 18, resulted in the capture of two terrorists, Abdul Aziz and Manwar Hussain. “Security forces also recovered weapons, ammunition and grenades from the suspects, disrupting their operational capabilities. This operation marks a crucial step in dismantling terror networks, as both individuals were involved in orchestrating terror activities, including grenade attacks on religious sites and hospitals, terror financing, anti-national propaganda, and arms smuggling,” Lt Col Bartwal said. As per the information, the operation was launched by the police, 37 Rashtriya Rifles and 38th Battalion of CRPF after which Abdul Aziz was arrested and two hand grenades were recovered from his possession. During investigation, one more grenade was recovered from his house and his accomplice Manawar Hussain was also arrested along with a pistol, one magazine and nine bullets. Bartwal said the recent arrests have weakened the logistical and operational networks of terror groups in the region, signalling a strong setback to their efforts. “The Army’s swift and coordinated response, in collaboration with the J&K Police, has not only ensured the safety of civilians but has also dealt a decisive blow to the terror ecosystem in the area. This success follows last month’s arrest of another associate, underscoring the relentless efforts of the Army and security forces to ensure peace and stability in the region,” he said. The arrests come amid heightened alert over Pakistani terrorists hiding in forest areas of Rajouri and Poonch districts. Being along the Line of Control (LoC), both districts have remained on the target of the ultras for the past some time.
