Massive Crackdown After Anantnag Attack; Nearly 2,000 Suspected OGWs Detained Across Kashmir

Srinagar, July 23: Hours after a Jammu and Kashmir Police head constable was killed in a terrorist attack in Anantnag, security forces launched a massive crackdown across Kashmir, detaining nearly 2,000 suspected Over Ground Workers (OGWs) for questioning. According to police, coordinated raids were carried out in Srinagar, Baramulla, Budgam, Ganderbal and several other districts based on specific intelligence inputs following the attack. In Srinagar, around 700 suspected OGWs were detained during raids conducted at multiple locations. Similar operations in Ganderbal led to the detention of more than 100 suspects, while Baramulla police detained 178 individuals. In Budgam, over 200 suspected OGWs were taken into custody as part of preventive security measures. Detentions were also reported from other districts. Police said the operations were aimed at identifying and dismantling terror support networks involved in providing logistics, finances, communication, transportation and shelter to terrorist groups. “The detained individuals are being questioned in accordance with the law to ascertain their role, if any, in activities prejudicial to the security of the Union Territory,” police said. Officials said the intelligence-based operations would continue in coordination with other security agencies to eliminate the ecosystem supporting militancy and ensure those aiding terrorist activities are brought to justice. The crackdown followed the killing of Head Constable Ashiq Hussain, who was shot dead by terrorists while on Amarnath Yatra security duty in Anantnag, prompting heightened security measures across the Valley.