3 terrorists killed in Shopian, huge cache of weapons and communication gear recovered by forces

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district neutralized three heavily armed terrorists in an intense encounter in the forested region. The terrorists, believed to be associated with Pakistan-backed militant groups, were found in possession of a significant cache of weapons and communication equipment. Among the items recovered were AK-47 rifles, over nine loaded magazines, multiple hand grenades, food supplies, and two advanced wireless communication devices capable of sending encrypted messages without SIM cards.The terrorists were reportedly planning a major attack in the Valley and were hiding in the dense forests with full preparation. These militants were also on a list of 14 most-wanted active operatives circulated by security agencies. Recent intelligence inputs suggest that groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Hizbul Mujahideen have been directed by Pakistan to coordinate efforts and intensify violence in Kashmir.Officials say the discovery of high-grade weapons and secure communication systems indicates a renewed strategy to revive militancy in the region. The encounter and seizure are seen as part of a larger crackdown on infiltration and terror planning along the Line of Control. With border areas calmer due to the ceasefire, anti-terror operations are now being expanded deep within the Valley.