Security forces have described the arrest of a Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba commander in north Kashmir a “big catch”.
According to a senior police official, Abu Ukasha was rounded up when he was walking in Sogam market around 7 p.m. on Monday in Kupwara district’s Lolab area, more than 90 km north of Srinagar. He was apparently buying grocery when he was overpowered.
Preliminary investigation revealed that Abu Ukasha alias Hanzulla was from Pakistan.
Police said a grenade and Rs. 38,000 were recovered from him.
Immediately after his arrest, a major combing operation was launched in Lolab forests to apprehend his associates. Sources said exchange of fire was also reported in the area.
Another LeT militant Abu Bakar, suspected to be in the area, was believed to have escaped after engaging in a gunfight with the security forces.
“The operation is under way in Nagbal and Sheikh Nard forest area in Sogam,” said a police official.
Meanwhile, the State government on Tuesday said around 145 militants were active in the State, including 91 locals and 54 foreigners.
