Operation Mahadev Concludes with the Neutralization of Key Terrorists in Pahalgam

Successful Conclusion of Operation Mahadev

In a significant achievement, security forces have successfully concluded Operation Mahadev, resulting in the elimination of three foreign terrorists linked to the horrific murder of 26 civilians in Baisaran, Pahalgam. This operation took place at the revered Mahadev Top, a site of great importance for Kashmiri Hindus, symbolizing a crucial step towards justice for the victims of the terror attack.

Intensive Manhunt Leads to Terrorists' Location

After an extensive 95-day search, intelligence agencies and security personnel pinpointed the terrorists in the Zabbarwan range near Mahadev Peak, which stands over 13,000 feet tall. The encounter on Monday resulted in the deaths of Suleiman, also known as Hashim Musa, Yasir, and Abu Hamza Afghani, all associated with the Pakistan-based group 'The Resistance Front' (TRF), a front for Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). Suleiman, a Pakistani national and former commando of the Pakistani Special Services Group (SSG), was identified as the mastermind behind the Pahalgam attack.

A Turning Point in the Fight Against Terrorism

This operation represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing pursuit of justice following the tragic attack that resulted in 26 fatalities. It is the culmination of relentless efforts by the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army's 15 Corps, under the leadership of Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat and the Army's Corps Commander. The forces had previously attempted to locate the terrorists on five occasions, narrowly missing them in various remote areas including HapatNaar Pahalgam, Tral, and Dachigam.

Diligent Surveillance and Tactical Operations

DGP Nalin Prabhat took a hands-on approach, overseeing extensive surveillance and reconnaissance across key locations in South to North Kashmir and Jammu, including Kashtwar, Rajouri, and Poonch, ensuring thoroughness in the operation. Elite Para Commandos and Special Operations Groups (SOG) meticulously searched dense forests, utilizing advanced intelligence methods to track and neutralize the terrorists.

Symbolic Significance of Mahadev Peak

The sacred Mahadev Peak, revered by Kashmiri Pandits and the local populace as the dwelling place of Lord Shiva, served not only as a strategic location but also as a symbol of justice. The success of this operation highlights the unwavering dedication of security forces to eliminate terrorism and restore peace in the region.

Fulfillment of a Promise

During Maha Shivratri celebrations earlier this year, DGP Prabhat expressed, 'When Shiva Protects You, Your Enemies Can’t Destroy You.' Today, that promise was realized as the terrorists responsible for the Pahalgam attack faced their end at the sacred Mahadev Top.

Background of the Eliminated Terrorists

The terrorists killed in this operation—Suleiman Shah alias Hashim Musa, Yasir @ Jibran, and Abu Hamza Afghani—were implicated in several terror incidents, including the Sonmarg z-Morh tunnel attack in October 2024 and an assault on army personnel in Botapathri Gulmarg. Suleiman, a high-ranking LeT commander and former Pakistani SSG commando, was trained at Lashkar’s Muridke headquarters in Pakistan and was considered a key conspirator in the Baisaran massacre. He was reportedly involved with Yasir in the Sonmarg tunnel attack and was part of a prominent TRF terrorist group operating in the forests of Dachigam, Srinagar.

Connections to Other Terrorist Activities

Hamza Afghani, also known as Abu Hamza, was another foreign terrorist, likely from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa or Afghanistan, with ties to the Lashkar-e-Taiba module. His involvement in the Pahalgam attack is also under investigation.