Shopian, Jammu & Kashmir – May 2025: In a decisive move against terrorism in the Kashmir Valley, three terrorists affiliated with the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) were eliminated in an encounter during Operation Keller in Shopian district. The operation is being seen as a significant success in ongoing efforts to combat militancy in South Kashmir.
Operation Keller was launched after intelligence agencies received inputs about the presence of armed terrorists hiding in the Gahand area of Shopian. Acting swiftly, security forces cordoned off the area and initiated a search, which quickly turned into a gunfight as the terrorists fired upon the troops.
The three slain terrorists were confirmed to be active operatives of the LeT outfit. They were reportedly involved in several violent activities in the region, including attacks on civilians and targeted assaults on security forces. Operation Keller ensured that the terrorists were neutralized before they could escape or cause further damage.
Arms, ammunition, and other war-like materials were recovered from the site of the encounter. Authorities also conducted a thorough sweep of the area after the encounter ended to ensure no further threats remained. Operation Keller has been hailed for its precise execution and effective coordination between various security units.
This latest success under Operation Keller reflects an intensification of counter-terror efforts in the region. Shopian, along with other South Kashmir districts, has long been a hotspot for militant activity. The terrain, coupled with local networks supporting infiltration, has made it a challenge for security agencies. Operation Keller, however, is part of a renewed push to break the back of terrorism in these vulnerable areas.
Local residents were advised to remain indoors as Operation Keller unfolded. Authorities have taken steps to ensure civilian safety while conducting such operations. There were no civilian casualties reported during Operation Keller, underscoring the professionalism of the security forces.
Officials emphasized that Operation Keller is not a one-off but part of a larger strategy to eliminate the threat of terrorism from Jammu & Kashmir. Over the last few months, Operation Keller has become symbolic of a no-tolerance policy toward terror infrastructure, with a sharp focus on eliminating local and foreign operatives.
The success of Operation Keller is expected to deal a major blow to Lashkar-e-Taiba’s operations in South Kashmir. Recovered intelligence and materials from the site are being analyzed to track down remaining elements of the group. The coordination seen in Operation Keller reflects a matured and intelligence-driven approach.
Security personnel continue to remain vigilant in Shopian as Operation Keller evolves. Officials hinted at further missions under the umbrella of Operation Keller, aimed at rooting out sleeper cells and disrupting recruitment modules. With every successful execution of Operation Keller, the region inches closer to peace and normalcy.
Operation Keller has once again reaffirmed the commitment of security forces to maintain law and order. With the momentum of Operation Keller growing, the message is clear: terrorism will find no safe haven in Jammu & Kashmir.
