16 civilians have been killed in targeted attacks in the Kashmir Valley since January. Small arms like pistols used in all attacks

Sixteen civilians have been killed in the Kashmir Valley Since January. The rise in target killings is a big challenge for the security forces. The use of small arms like pistols is the new modus operandi of terror groups.&nbsp;

Earlier today, at around 10:30 am (local time), a terrorist barged into the bank premises of the Ellaquai Dehati Bank branch at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district and shot dead the bank manager Identified as Vijay Kumar, 29.&nbsp;

Kumar belonged to the Rajasthan state of India. He was posted with the Ellaquai Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district for the last 3 years.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police released CCTV footage of the incident, in which terrorists can be seen entering the bank premises and shooting the bank manager from a point-blank range with a pistol.&nbsp;

"Terrorists fired upon a bank employee (manager) at Ellaqie Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora village in Kulgam district. He received grievous gunshot injuries in this terror incident. He is a resident of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Area cordoned off"' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir.&nbsp;

The incident happened just two days after the killing of a Hindu schoolteacher in the same district of Kulgam. A schoolteacher was shot dead by terrorists in the Gopalpora area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district on May 31.&nbsp;

The teacher was identified as Rajni Bala and was shot dead right outside the Government high school, Gopalpora. Rajni Bala was a migrant Hindu scheduled caste and a teacher by profession and was posted in Kulgam in 2017.&nbsp;

Rajni’s husband had dropped her on the main road that day and as she entered the lane, two terrorists shot her from a close range with a pistol. The locals had rushed to the spot and taken her to hospital, but she didn't make it.&nbsp;

The local news agencies have said that the terror outfit, The resistance Front 'TRF' has claimed the responsibility for the attack. The Political parties in the valley have condemned the attack on the Bank Manager.&nbsp;

"So very sorry to hear about the targeted killing of Vijay Kumar. Tweeting to condemn an attack and condole a death are becoming a mind-numbingly regular thing. It’s heart-breaking to see families destroyed like this," said Omar Abdullah, Former CM of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

On May 25, Famous Kashmiri television, and social media actress Ambreen Bhat was killed by terrorists right outside her house. Her 10-year-old nephew had sustained bullet injuries as well. Ambreen was associated with TV for over 18 years, and she was the lone bread earner of the house. Her Father kept saying that Ambreen was his son during her funeral. The Jammu and Kashmir Police had said that three Lashkar terrorists were involved in the killing on Ambreen. She was shot at from a close range with a pistol.&nbsp;

On May 12, a Kashmiri Pandit, Rahul Bhat was shot dead by terrorists inside his Tehsil office. Rahul was an employee of the revenue department in Kashmir. He had been given a job under the PM package for the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley. Police said that Rahul was shot at by 02 terrorists using pistols for the crime.

The Government in a meeting yesterday decided that all the non-locals and minority community employees will be posted in secure locations in the Valley. However, the Kashmir Pandit community has been demanding that they should be shifted to the Jammu region till the condition in the valley becomes conducive.&nbsp;

16 civilians have been killed in targeted attacks in the Kashmir Valley since January. Small arms like pistols used in all attacks Sixteen civilians have been killed in the Kashmir Valley Since January.

16 civilians have been killed in targeted attacks in the Kashmir Valley since January. Small arms like pistols used in all attacks Sixteen civilians have been killed in the Kashmir Valley Since January. The rise in target killings is a big challenge for the security forces. The use of small arms like pistols is the new modus operandi of terror groups. Earlier today, at around 10:30 am (local time), a terrorist barged into the bank premises of the Ellaquai Dehati Bank branch at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district and shot dead the bank manager Identified as Vijay Kumar, 29. Kumar belonged to the Rajasthan state of India. He was posted with the Ellaquai Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora in Kulgam district for the last 3 years. Jammu and Kashmir Police released CCTV footage of the incident, in which terrorists can be seen entering the bank premises and shooting the bank manager from a point-blank range with a pistol. "Terrorists fired upon a bank employee (manager) at Ellaqie Dehati Bank at Areh Mohanpora village in Kulgam district. He received grievous gunshot injuries in this terror incident. He is a resident of Hanumangarh, Rajasthan. Area cordoned off"' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir. The incident happened just two days after the killing of a Hindu schoolteacher in the same district of Kulgam. A schoolteacher was shot dead by terrorists in the Gopalpora area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district on May 31. The teacher was identified as Rajni Bala and was shot dead right outside the Government high school, Gopalpora. Rajni Bala was a migrant Hindu scheduled caste and a teacher by profession and was posted in Kulgam in 2017. Rajni’s husband had dropped her on the main road that day and as she entered the lane, two terrorists shot her from a close range with a pistol. The locals had rushed to the spot and taken her to hospital, but she didn't make it. The local news agencies have said that the terror outfit, The resistance Front 'TRF' has claimed the responsibility for the attack. The Political parties in the valley have condemned the attack on the Bank Manager. "So very sorry to hear about the targeted killing of Vijay Kumar. Tweeting to condemn an attack and condole a death are becoming a mind-numbingly regular thing. It’s heart-breaking to see families destroyed like this," said Omar Abdullah, Former CM of Jammu and Kashmir. On May 25, Famous Kashmiri television, and social media actress Ambreen Bhat was killed by terrorists right outside her house. Her 10-year-old nephew had sustained bullet injuries as well. Ambreen was associated with TV for over 18 years, and she was the lone bread earner of the house. Her Father kept saying that Ambreen was his son during her funeral. The Jammu and Kashmir Police had said that three Lashkar terrorists were involved in the killing on Ambreen. She was shot at from a close range with a pistol. On May 12, a Kashmiri Pandit, Rahul Bhat was shot dead by terrorists inside his Tehsil office. Rahul was an employee of the revenue department in Kashmir. He had been given a job under the PM package for the rehabilitation of Kashmiri Pandits in the Valley. Police said that Rahul was shot at by 02 terrorists using pistols for the crime. The Government in a meeting yesterday decided that all the non-locals and minority community employees will be posted in secure locations in the Valley. However, the Kashmir Pandit community has been demanding that they should be shifted to the Jammu region till the condition in the valley becomes conducive.

India: 16 civilians killed in target attacks in Kashmir Valley since January

In a 2017 case involving "terror funding" in Jammu and Kashmir, a Special National Investigation Agency court in New Delhi convicted terrorist Muhammad Yasin Malik to life in jail.

On May 19, Malik, who is the chairman of the outlawed separatist group Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front, was found guilty of criminal conspiracy, waging war against India, and other counts under India's strict Unlawful Activities Prevention Act.

Yasin's backing from Pakistan was evident on social media, with multiple tweets expressing sympathy for the terrorist.Several Pakistani leaders and ministers have shown their support for the terrorist who is requesting to be released from custody.

Hamid Mir, a Pakistani journalist and author, criticised the NIA court's ruling. He maintained that the claims against Malik were false and that he was not guilty. In a tweet, he requested that the United Nations investigate the situation and take appropriate action. 
&nbsp;

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It’s time for <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> to take notice of fabricated charges against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YasinMalik?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YasinMalik</a> and other Kashmiri leaders <a href="https://t.co/zdtOYkHtba">https://t.co/zdtOYkHtba</a>
— Hamid Mir (@HamidMirPAK) <a href="https://twitter.com/HamidMirPAK/status/1529367592665743360?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Strongly condemn unjust sentencing of Hurriyat leader Yasin Malik in a sham trial. India can never silence Kashmiris’ voice for freedom and self-determination. Pakistan stands with Kashmiri brothers and sisters, will continue to provide all possible support in their just struggle
— BilawalBhuttoZardari (@BBhuttoZardari) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBhuttoZardari/status/1529458941213790208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Shaan Shahid, a Pakistani actor, spoke out in support of Free Kashmir, calling Malik a "fighter" for his homeland.

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A warrior for of his motherland .. the powers of the world are quiet yet the screams of injustice can be heard by all .. yasin Malik you are a hero .. may ALLAH be with you ..you cannot be silenced as your words of freedom will echo forever . We stand with you <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FreeKashmir?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FreeKashmir</a> <a href="https://t.co/Sw635yp6ff">pic.twitter.com/Sw635yp6ff</a>
— Shaan Shahid (@mshaanshahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/mshaanshahid/status/1527565442423967744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Not only did Pakistan's celebrities express support for the terrorist, but several young Pakistanis took to the streets on Tuesday to demonstrate against India's government. Pakistanis from the United Kingdom gathered in front of the Indian embassy, asking that terrorist Yasin Malik be released. 
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In a 2017 case involving "terror funding" in Jammu and Kashmir, a Special National Investigation Agency court in New Delhi convicted terrorist Muhammad Yasin Malik to life in jail.

In a 2017 case involving "terror funding" in Jammu and Kashmir, a Special National Investigation Agency court in New Delhi convicted terrorist Muhammad Yasin Malik to life in jail. On May 19, Malik, who is the chairman of the outlawed separatist group Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front, was found guilty of criminal conspiracy, waging war against India, and other counts under India's strict Unlawful Activities Prevention Act. Yasin's backing from Pakistan was evident on social media, with multiple tweets expressing sympathy for the terrorist.Several Pakistani leaders and ministers have shown their support for the terrorist who is requesting to be released from custody. Hamid Mir, a Pakistani journalist and author, criticised the NIA court's ruling. He maintained that the claims against Malik were false and that he was not guilty. In a tweet, he requested that the United Nations investigate the situation and take appropriate action. It’s time for @UN to take notice of fabricated charges against #YasinMalik and other Kashmiri leaders https://t.co/zdtOYkHtba — Hamid Mir (@HamidMirPAK) May 25, 2022 × Bilawal Bhutto shared this post: Strongly condemn unjust sentencing of Hurriyat leader Yasin Malik in a sham trial. India can never silence Kashmiris’ voice for freedom and self-determination. Pakistan stands with Kashmiri brothers and sisters, will continue to provide all possible support in their just struggle — BilawalBhuttoZardari (@BBhuttoZardari) May 25, 2022 × Shaan Shahid, a Pakistani actor, spoke out in support of Free Kashmir, calling Malik a "fighter" for his homeland. A warrior for of his motherland .. the powers of the world are quiet yet the screams of injustice can be heard by all .. yasin Malik you are a hero .. may ALLAH be with you ..you cannot be silenced as your words of freedom will echo forever . We stand with you #FreeKashmir pic.twitter.com/Sw635yp6ff — Shaan Shahid (@mshaanshahid) May 20, 2022 × Not only did Pakistan's celebrities express support for the terrorist, but several young Pakistanis took to the streets on Tuesday to demonstrate against India's government. Pakistanis from the United Kingdom gathered in front of the Indian embassy, asking that terrorist Yasin Malik be released. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Yasin Malik gets life imprisonment, Pakistanis shed tears for convicted terrorist

Three Pakistani Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were killed in an encounter in the North Kashmir Kupwara area on Thursday, according to Jammu and Kashmir Police.

''From the incriminating materials recovered, the 03 killed terrorists have been identified as Pakistani, affiliated with terror outfit LeT. So far, 26 foreign terrorists (14 Jaish-e-Muhammed &amp; 12 Lashkar-e-Taiba) have been neutralised this year,'' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

Kashmir has witnessed 50 encounters this year, in which 78 terrorists have been killed, out of which 26 were foreigners, mostly of Pakistani origin.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police and Indian Army intercepted a group infiltrating into the Valley. The terrorists were tracked, and later gunfight started leading to an encounter. There was an encounter yesterday in North Kashmir's Kreeri area as well in which three terrorists were killed.

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Three Pakistani Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were killed in an encounter in the North Kashmir Kupwara area on Thursday, according to Jammu and Kashmir Police. ''From the incriminating materials recovered, the 03 killed terrorists have been identified as Pakistani, affiliated with terror outfit LeT.

Three Pakistani Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists were killed in an encounter in the North Kashmir Kupwara area on Thursday, according to Jammu and Kashmir Police. ''From the incriminating materials recovered, the 03 killed terrorists have been identified as Pakistani, affiliated with terror outfit LeT. So far, 26 foreign terrorists (14 Jaish-e-Muhammed & 12 Lashkar-e-Taiba) have been neutralised this year,'' said Vijay Kumar, IG Kashmir Police. Kashmir has witnessed 50 encounters this year, in which 78 terrorists have been killed, out of which 26 were foreigners, mostly of Pakistani origin. Jammu and Kashmir Police and Indian Army intercepted a group infiltrating into the Valley. The terrorists were tracked, and later gunfight started leading to an encounter. There was an encounter yesterday in North Kashmir's Kreeri area as well in which three terrorists were killed. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Three Pakistani Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists killed in an encounter

Terrorists&nbsp;killed a Jammu and Kashmir Police constable in South Kashmir's Pulwama district. Terrorists fired upon Police Constable Reyaz Ahmad Thoker, S/O Ali Mohammed, at his residence at Gudroo, Pulwama. According to police, Reyaz had gone to drop off his&nbsp;4-year-old son at school. Police constable Reyaz was shifted to a hospital in an injured state but later succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir Police paid rich tributes to the policeman. A Wreath Laying ceremony was held in the Pulwama district, which was attended by top police and paramilitary officials.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmiri-pandit-shot-dead-by-terrorists-community-protests-across-kashmir-478446">Kashmiri Pandit shot dead by terrorists, community protests across Kashmir</a>

"It's a coward attack by terrorists on Our Jawan, who had gone to drop off his 4-year-old son. It’s condemnable and we have started our investigation into the matter." We will identify them and give them a befitting reply too. Jammu and Kashmir Police have been and will fight terrorists and terrorism, and incidents like these won’t affect our morale, "said Abdul Jabbar, DIG South Kashmir.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India's wheat exports avert global food crisis

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The police also said that all the security arrangements have been put in place in South Kashmir with regard to the Amarnath&nbsp;Yatra.&nbsp;

&nbsp;Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kashmir-tourism-breaks-records-arrivals-highest-in-10-years-478416">&nbsp;Kashmir tourism breaks records, arrivals highest in 10 years</a>

We have made all security arrangements. We are capable of dealing with any security challenge. "said Abdul Jabbar, DIG South Kashmir.

Police said that two terrorists carried out the attack and they will soon be identified.

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Terrorists killed a Jammu and Kashmir Police constable in South Kashmir's Pulwama district. Terrorists fired upon Police Constable Reyaz Ahmad Thoker, S/O Ali Mohammed, at his residence at Gudroo, Pulwama.

Terrorists killed a Jammu and Kashmir Police constable in South Kashmir's Pulwama district. Terrorists fired upon Police Constable Reyaz Ahmad Thoker, S/O Ali Mohammed, at his residence at Gudroo, Pulwama. According to police, Reyaz had gone to drop off his 4-year-old son at school. Police constable Reyaz was shifted to a hospital in an injured state but later succumbed to his injuries. Jammu and Kashmir Police paid rich tributes to the policeman. A Wreath Laying ceremony was held in the Pulwama district, which was attended by top police and paramilitary officials. Also read | Kashmiri Pandit shot dead by terrorists, community protests across Kashmir "It's a coward attack by terrorists on Our Jawan, who had gone to drop off his 4-year-old son. It’s condemnable and we have started our investigation into the matter." We will identify them and give them a befitting reply too. Jammu and Kashmir Police have been and will fight terrorists and terrorism, and incidents like these won’t affect our morale, "said Abdul Jabbar, DIG South Kashmir. Watch | Gravitas: India's wheat exports avert global food crisis The police also said that all the security arrangements have been put in place in South Kashmir with regard to the Amarnath Yatra. Also read | Kashmir tourism breaks records, arrivals highest in 10 years We have made all security arrangements. We are capable of dealing with any security challenge. "said Abdul Jabbar, DIG South Kashmir. Police said that two terrorists carried out the attack and they will soon be identified. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Terrorists shot dead J&K Police constable, rich floral tribute paid during wreathlaying ceremony

Two terrorists belonging to the Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit have been killed in an encounter in South Kashmir's Kilbal area of Shopian district. The identification of the terrorists is yet to be known. However, the police say that they belonged to the Lashkar-e-Taiba/The Resistance Front.&nbsp;

The operation started earlier today after the forces received information about the presence of terrorists in the area.&nbsp;

''One more terrorist has been killed. In total, two terrorists have been killed, both from terror outfit LeT/TRF. Incriminating materials including arms and ammunition have been recovered. Search is going on. Further details shall follow,'' said Jammu and Kashmir Police.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-amar-jawan-jyoti-merged-with-national-war-memorial-flame-446611">Also read |&nbsp;In Pics: Amar Jawan Jyoti merged with National War Memorial flame</a>

The security forces after receiving the input about the presence of terrorists in the area started a cordon and search operation and during the search, terrorists fired on the forces resulting in a gun battle.&nbsp;

Both the terrorists' bodies have been recovered from the encounter site. Arms and ammunition have also been recovered from the site.&nbsp;

Earlier, a terror associate was arrested by security forces in the Awantipora area of South Kashmir. Police said he belonged to Jaish e Mohammad outfit.&nbsp;

Two terrorists belonging to the Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit have been killed in an encounter in South Kashmir's Kilbal area of Shopian district. The identification of the terrorists is yet to be known.

Two terrorists belonging to the Lashkar-e-Taiba outfit have been killed in an encounter in South Kashmir's Kilbal area of Shopian district. The identification of the terrorists is yet to be known. However, the police say that they belonged to the Lashkar-e-Taiba/The Resistance Front. The operation started earlier today after the forces received information about the presence of terrorists in the area. ''One more terrorist has been killed. In total, two terrorists have been killed, both from terror outfit LeT/TRF. Incriminating materials including arms and ammunition have been recovered. Search is going on. Further details shall follow,'' said Jammu and Kashmir Police. Also read | In Pics: Amar Jawan Jyoti merged with National War Memorial flame The security forces after receiving the input about the presence of terrorists in the area started a cordon and search operation and during the search, terrorists fired on the forces resulting in a gun battle. Both the terrorists' bodies have been recovered from the encounter site. Arms and ammunition have also been recovered from the site. Earlier, a terror associate was arrested by security forces in the Awantipora area of South Kashmir. Police said he belonged to Jaish e Mohammad outfit.

Two LeT terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian encounter

A terrorist was killed and a policeman injured in two separate encounters between security forces and ultras in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, police said.

While one encounter broke out in Anantnag district, another gunfight took place in Kulgam district&nbsp;both in south Kashmir.

A police official said the first encounter happened when security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Nowgam Shahabad of Dooru in the south Kashmir district acting on a specific input about the presence of militants.

He said as the forces were conducting the searches, the hiding militants fired upon them.

The forces retaliated, ensuing an encounter, the official said.

In the initial firing, a police personnel was injured and has been shifted to a hospital, the official added.

The exchange of firing was going on and further details were awaited, he said.

Meanwhile, another encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Mirhama area of the neighbouring Kulgam district, the official said.

He said one militant, his identity yet to be ascertained, was killed in the gunfight.

The operation is underway, he said.

A terrorist was killed and a policeman injured in two separate encounters between security forces and ultras in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, police said. While one encounter broke out in Anantnag district, another gunfight took place in Kulgam district both in south Kashmir.

A terrorist was killed and a policeman injured in two separate encounters between security forces and ultras in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday, police said. While one encounter broke out in Anantnag district, another gunfight took place in Kulgam district both in south Kashmir. A police official said the first encounter happened when security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Nowgam Shahabad of Dooru in the south Kashmir district acting on a specific input about the presence of militants. He said as the forces were conducting the searches, the hiding militants fired upon them. The forces retaliated, ensuing an encounter, the official said. In the initial firing, a police personnel was injured and has been shifted to a hospital, the official added. The exchange of firing was going on and further details were awaited, he said. Meanwhile, another encounter broke out between militants and security forces in Mirhama area of the neighbouring Kulgam district, the official said. He said one militant, his identity yet to be ascertained, was killed in the gunfight. The operation is underway, he said.

Terrorist killed, cop injured in separate encounters in south Kashmir

Pakistani law enforcement agencies have reportedly arrested at least nine terrorists, including a young woman, allegedly belonging to the Islamic State (IS) and Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), officials informed on Saturday, a report by PTI stated.&nbsp;

As per a statement, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab province arrested nine terrorists. Six of them belong to the TTP and others to the IS.&nbsp;

"The CTD has conducted 42 IBOs (intelligence-based operations) in different districts of Punjab and arrested nine suspects," read the statement as quoted by PTI. &nbsp;

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-is-hosting-oic-meeting-to-organise-economic-assistance-for-afghanistan-437883">Pakistan is hosting OIC meeting to organise economic assistance for Afghanistan</a>

"The three IS activists were collecting funds for financial support of defunct organisation, distributing banned books among people and motivating peoples to join the organisation (IS)," the CTD said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a recent US State Department report on global terrorism revealed that Pakistan made "limited progress" on the most difficult aspects of its 2015 National Action Plan to counter-terrorism as it had pledged to dismantle terrorist organisations operating inside the country without "delay or discrimination". 
&nbsp; 
The 2020 Country Reports on Terrorism, which was issued on Thursday (December 16), stated that terrorist groups continued to operate from Pakistan regionally.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rewind-2021-when-taliban-in-afghanistan-became-the-new-normal-437572">Rewind 2021: When Taliban in Afghanistan became the 'new normal'</a>

The report mentioned that groups targeting India, including LeT and its affiliated front organisations and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) continued to operate from Pakistani territory.&nbsp;

The report specifically mentioned that Pakistan did not take action against JeM founder and UN-designated terrorist Masood Azhar and 2008 Mumbai attack "project manager" Sajid Mir. As per the report, both are believed to remain free in Pakistan.&nbsp;

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Pakistani law enforcement agencies have reportedly arrested at least nine terrorists, including a young woman, allegedly belonging to the Islamic State (IS) and Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), officials informed on Saturday, a report by PTI stated.

Pakistani law enforcement agencies have reportedly arrested at least nine terrorists, including a young woman, allegedly belonging to the Islamic State (IS) and Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), officials informed on Saturday, a report by PTI stated. As per a statement, the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) of Punjab province arrested nine terrorists. Six of them belong to the TTP and others to the IS. "The CTD has conducted 42 IBOs (intelligence-based operations) in different districts of Punjab and arrested nine suspects," read the statement as quoted by PTI. ALSO READ | Pakistan is hosting OIC meeting to organise economic assistance for Afghanistan "The three IS activists were collecting funds for financial support of defunct organisation, distributing banned books among people and motivating peoples to join the organisation (IS)," the CTD said. Meanwhile, a recent US State Department report on global terrorism revealed that Pakistan made "limited progress" on the most difficult aspects of its 2015 National Action Plan to counter-terrorism as it had pledged to dismantle terrorist organisations operating inside the country without "delay or discrimination". The 2020 Country Reports on Terrorism, which was issued on Thursday (December 16), stated that terrorist groups continued to operate from Pakistan regionally. ALSO READ | Rewind 2021: When Taliban in Afghanistan became the 'new normal' The report mentioned that groups targeting India, including LeT and its affiliated front organisations and Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) continued to operate from Pakistani territory. The report specifically mentioned that Pakistan did not take action against JeM founder and UN-designated terrorist Masood Azhar and 2008 Mumbai attack "project manager" Sajid Mir. As per the report, both are believed to remain free in Pakistan. ×

At least nine terrorists arrested by law enforcement agencies in Pakistan: Officials

Two terrorists were killed in an ongoing confrontation between the former and security personnel in the Redwani region of South Kashmir's Kulgam district on Thursday, according to Jammu and Kashmir police sources.

"Two unidentified terrorists were killed. A search operation is currently underway, "said the cops.

A gunfight between terrorists and security forces occurred on Thursday after a joint team of police and security forces cordoned off the area and conducted a search operation based on specific information regarding the presence of terrorists.

As security forces closed in on the location where terrorists were hiding, they were met with a barrage of fire, which sparked the confrontation.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Two terrorists were killed in an ongoing confrontation between the former and security personnel in the Redwani region of South Kashmir's Kulgam district on Thursday, according to Jammu and Kashmir police sources.

Two terrorists were killed in an ongoing confrontation between the former and security personnel in the Redwani region of South Kashmir's Kulgam district on Thursday, according to Jammu and Kashmir police sources. "Two unidentified terrorists were killed. A search operation is currently underway, "said the cops. A gunfight between terrorists and security forces occurred on Thursday after a joint team of police and security forces cordoned off the area and conducted a search operation based on specific information regarding the presence of terrorists. As security forces closed in on the location where terrorists were hiding, they were met with a barrage of fire, which sparked the confrontation. (With inputs from agencies)

Jammu and Kashmir: Two terrorists killed in encounter in Kulgam

Security forces have neutralised three&nbsp;terrorists in two encounters in the last 24 hours in Kashmir valley. One terrorist identified as Aamir Riyaz of Khrew Pulwama, affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Mujahideen Gazwatul Hind, was killed in the Srinagar encounter.

Police said that he was a relative of one of the accused of the Lethpora terror attack and was assigned to carry out fidayeen attack.&nbsp;

He had also shot a video before carrying out the attack in Srinagar but was neutralised by security forces before that. The video has gone viral on social media.&nbsp;

"Terrorist killed in Srinagar encounter identified as Aamir Riyaz of Khrew Pulwama affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Mujahideen Gazwatul Hind. He was a relative of one of the accused of LetPora terror attack and was assigned to carry out fidayeen attack," said Vijay Kumar, IG JK Police, Kashmir Zone.&nbsp;

Another&nbsp;two terrorists were gunned down by the security forces in another encounter in South Kashmir's Kulgam district. Both of them belonged to the Hizb Ul Mujahideen outfit. Police said that the terrorists were involved in recruiting young boys into terror outfits.&nbsp;

"Two terrorists killed. These killed terrorists identified as District commanders of HM Shiraz Molvi and Yawar Bhat. Shiraz has been active since 2016 and&nbsp;was involved in recruiting innocent youth into terror ranks and several civilian killings. A big success for us,"&nbsp;said Vijay Kumar, IG JK Police, Kashmir Zone.

Both the operations have been called off by security forces. Huge arms and ammunition cache has been recovered from both the sites.&nbsp;

Security forces have neutralised three terrorists in two encounters in the last 24 hours in Kashmir valley. One terrorist identified as Aamir Riyaz of Khrew Pulwama, affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Mujahideen Gazwatul Hind, was killed in the Srinagar encounter.

Security forces have neutralised three terrorists in two encounters in the last 24 hours in Kashmir valley. One terrorist identified as Aamir Riyaz of Khrew Pulwama, affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Mujahideen Gazwatul Hind, was killed in the Srinagar encounter. Police said that he was a relative of one of the accused of the Lethpora terror attack and was assigned to carry out fidayeen attack. He had also shot a video before carrying out the attack in Srinagar but was neutralised by security forces before that. The video has gone viral on social media. "Terrorist killed in Srinagar encounter identified as Aamir Riyaz of Khrew Pulwama affiliated with proscribed terror outfit Mujahideen Gazwatul Hind. He was a relative of one of the accused of LetPora terror attack and was assigned to carry out fidayeen attack," said Vijay Kumar, IG JK Police, Kashmir Zone. Another two terrorists were gunned down by the security forces in another encounter in South Kashmir's Kulgam district. Both of them belonged to the Hizb Ul Mujahideen outfit. Police said that the terrorists were involved in recruiting young boys into terror outfits. "Two terrorists killed. These killed terrorists identified as District commanders of HM Shiraz Molvi and Yawar Bhat. Shiraz has been active since 2016 and was involved in recruiting innocent youth into terror ranks and several civilian killings. A big success for us," said Vijay Kumar, IG JK Police, Kashmir Zone. Both the operations have been called off by security forces. Huge arms and ammunition cache has been recovered from both the sites.

Srinagar: 3 terrorists killed in two encounters in 24 hours in the valley

A deadly blast in Kampala late on Saturday appeared to be an act of terrorism, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni said on Sunday.

He said the explosion in the capital killed one person, although the Uganda Police chief political commissar Asan Kasingye said late on Saturday that two people were killed.

At least seven people were injured, TV station NTV reported.

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"It seems to be a terrorist act," Museveni Tweeted on Sunday.

"The information I have is that 3 people came and left a package in kaveera [plastic bag] which later on exploded," Museveni said.

There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

The blast occurred at Digida Pork Joint, a restaurant, local media reported. Videos shared on social media showed panicked and confused revellers illuminated by blue police lights.

Bomb blasts in the East African country are rare. Kampala suffered a major attack by Somalia's al Shabaab in 2010 that killed dozens. The group said it had attacked Uganda as a punishment for its deployment of troops in Somalia.

A deadly blast in Kampala late on Saturday appeared to be an act of terrorism, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni said on Sunday. He said the explosion in the capital killed one person, although the Uganda Police chief political commissar Asan Kasingye said late on Saturday that two people were killed.

A deadly blast in Kampala late on Saturday appeared to be an act of terrorism, Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni said on Sunday. He said the explosion in the capital killed one person, although the Uganda Police chief political commissar Asan Kasingye said late on Saturday that two people were killed. At least seven people were injured, TV station NTV reported. Also Read | Five dead in Yemen blast targeting Aden governor: security sources "It seems to be a terrorist act," Museveni Tweeted on Sunday. "The information I have is that 3 people came and left a package in kaveera [plastic bag] which later on exploded," Museveni said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility. Officials did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The blast occurred at Digida Pork Joint, a restaurant, local media reported. Videos shared on social media showed panicked and confused revellers illuminated by blue police lights. Bomb blasts in the East African country are rare. Kampala suffered a major attack by Somalia's al Shabaab in 2010 that killed dozens. The group said it had attacked Uganda as a punishment for its deployment of troops in Somalia.

Deadly blast in Ugandan capital 'seems to be a terrorist act': President

The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the suicide bomber attack at a Shiite mosque in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar that killed dozens of people and injured scores.

A statement posted by the group’s Amaq news agency on Friday said that two Islamic State fighters shot dead the guards of the mosque, broke in and blew themselves up between two groups of worshippers, one of which consisted of around 300 people.

At least 47 people were killed and 70 others injured in the explosion inside the mosque during the Friday prayers.

It was the second week in a row that militants bombed Friday prayers and killed dozens of worshippers.

The attack follows several other recent attacks against religious institutions in Afghanistan, including last week’s attack against the Gozar-e-Sayed Abad Mosque in Kunduz.&nbsp;

The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has strongly condemned the horrendous terrorist attack.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-at-least-16-dead-as-blast-rocks-shiite-mosque-in-kandahar-420946">Afghanistan: At least 41 dead in Kandahar mosque blast, Taliban allege suicide bombing</a>

In a statement, the council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, and they wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured.

Members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security.

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"The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice," the statement said. They urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in this regard.&nbsp;

The United States also condemned the latest suicide attack. “We strongly condemn the attack on a Shia mosque in Kandahar today, the third such attack this month, and offer our condolences to the victims and their families. The Afghan people have the right to live and worship in peace and safety whichever religion or belief they choose," state department spokesperson Ned Price said in a tweet.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the suicide bomber attack at a Shiite mosque in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar that killed dozens of people and injured scores.

The Islamic State group has claimed responsibility for the suicide bomber attack at a Shiite mosque in the southern Afghan city of Kandahar that killed dozens of people and injured scores. A statement posted by the group’s Amaq news agency on Friday said that two Islamic State fighters shot dead the guards of the mosque, broke in and blew themselves up between two groups of worshippers, one of which consisted of around 300 people. At least 47 people were killed and 70 others injured in the explosion inside the mosque during the Friday prayers. It was the second week in a row that militants bombed Friday prayers and killed dozens of worshippers. The attack follows several other recent attacks against religious institutions in Afghanistan, including last week’s attack against the Gozar-e-Sayed Abad Mosque in Kunduz. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has strongly condemned the horrendous terrorist attack. Also read | Afghanistan: At least 41 dead in Kandahar mosque blast, Taliban allege suicide bombing In a statement, the council expressed their deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of the victims, and they wished a speedy and full recovery to those who were injured. Members of the Security Council reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security. Also read | Iraq, Syria terrorists actively entering Afghanistan: Vladimir Putin "The members of the Security Council underlined the need to hold perpetrators, organizers, financiers and sponsors of these reprehensible acts of terrorism accountable and bring them to justice," the statement said. They urged all States, in accordance with their obligations under international law and relevant Security Council resolutions, to cooperate actively with all relevant authorities in this regard. The United States also condemned the latest suicide attack. “We strongly condemn the attack on a Shia mosque in Kandahar today, the third such attack this month, and offer our condolences to the victims and their families. The Afghan people have the right to live and worship in peace and safety whichever religion or belief they choose," state department spokesperson Ned Price said in a tweet. (With inputs from agencies)

Islamic State claims responsibility for Shia mosque attack in Afghanistan

The British Police has termed the death of UK Conservative lawmaker David Amess, who was knifed to death outside the Essex church, as a “terrorist incident”.

The Metropolitan Police, whose counter-terrorism unit are leading the investigation of the incident, in a statement early on Saturday said that an initial investigation revealed the “potential motivation linked to Islamist extremism.”

“As part of the investigation, officers are currently carrying out searches at two addresses in the London area and these are ongoing,” Reuters quoted the police as saying, while adding that it is believed that the suspect in custody acted alone.

A 25-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and a knife was recovered from him.

Also read&nbsp; |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-conservative-mp-dies-after-getting-stabbed-multiple-times-suspect-arrested-421026">UK: Conservative MP dies after getting stabbed multiple times; Suspect arrested</a>

Essex police said officers had responded “within minutes” to reports of the stabbing shortly after 12:05 pm (1105 GMT) and arrived to find Amess had “suffered multiple injuries”.

“This was a difficult incident, but our officers and paramedics from the East of England Ambulance Service worked extremely hard to save Sir David,” Essex Police Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington told reporters.

"Tragically he died at the scene."

Watch

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A father-of-five who was first elected to parliament in 1983, Amess was memorialised with an impromptu evening mass while tributes poured in from across the political spectrum and around the world. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth for his public service in 2015.

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The killing has sent shockwaves around Britain.

Flags were lowered to half-mast in Westminster as tributes were paid to Amess, whose death came five years after the murder of Labour party MP Jo Cox by a far-right extremist.

"David was a man who believed passionately in this country and in its future and we have lost today a fine public servant and a much loved friend and colleague," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who rushed back to London from the west of England after the news broke.

In Amess'&nbsp;last contribution to the House of Commons last month, he asked for a debate about animal welfare.

Residents left flowers beside the church with a tribute: “David Amess RIP Such a gentleman.”

(With inputs from agencies)

The British Police has termed the death of UK Conservative lawmaker David Amess, who was knifed to death outside the Essex church, as a “terrorist incident”. The Metropolitan Police, whose counter-terrorism unit are leading the investigation of the incident, in a statement early on Saturday said that an initial investigation revealed the “potential motivation linked to Islamist extremism.

The British Police has termed the death of UK Conservative lawmaker David Amess, who was knifed to death outside the Essex church, as a “terrorist incident”. The Metropolitan Police, whose counter-terrorism unit are leading the investigation of the incident, in a statement early on Saturday said that an initial investigation revealed the “potential motivation linked to Islamist extremism.” “As part of the investigation, officers are currently carrying out searches at two addresses in the London area and these are ongoing,” Reuters quoted the police as saying, while adding that it is believed that the suspect in custody acted alone. A 25-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and a knife was recovered from him. Also read | UK: Conservative MP dies after getting stabbed multiple times; Suspect arrested Essex police said officers had responded “within minutes” to reports of the stabbing shortly after 12:05 pm (1105 GMT) and arrived to find Amess had “suffered multiple injuries”. “This was a difficult incident, but our officers and paramedics from the East of England Ambulance Service worked extremely hard to save Sir David,” Essex Police Chief Constable Ben-Julian Harrington told reporters. "Tragically he died at the scene." Watch A father-of-five who was first elected to parliament in 1983, Amess was memorialised with an impromptu evening mass while tributes poured in from across the political spectrum and around the world. He was knighted by Queen Elizabeth for his public service in 2015. Also read | Norway bow-and-arrow attacker may have acted due to mental illness The killing has sent shockwaves around Britain. Flags were lowered to half-mast in Westminster as tributes were paid to Amess, whose death came five years after the murder of Labour party MP Jo Cox by a far-right extremist. "David was a man who believed passionately in this country and in its future and we have lost today a fine public servant and a much loved friend and colleague," said Prime Minister Boris Johnson, who rushed back to London from the west of England after the news broke. In Amess' last contribution to the House of Commons last month, he asked for a debate about animal welfare. Residents left flowers beside the church with a tribute: “David Amess RIP Such a gentleman.” (With inputs from agencies)

Police declare fatal stabbing of UK Conservative MP as 'terrorist incident'

A town in Norway fell prey to a stone-age-style attack. A terrorist killed 5 people with bow and arrows in Kongsberg. How did Norway react to it? By asking police to start carrying arms with them. Weren't they armed already? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Norway: 5 killed in bow and arrow attack

The Delhi Police on Tuesday said it has foiled a major terror plan during the festival season with the arrest of a 40-year-old Pakistani terrorist who has ISI links and had been living in India for over ten years under a fake identity.

Mohammad Ashraf alias Ali Ahmed Noorie, a resident of Naroval in Pakistan's Punjab province, was arrested from east Delhi's Laxmi Nagar, officials said, adding he is also suspected to be involved in terror strikes in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of India in the past.

The police said that preliminary interrogation revealed that Ashraf had been acting as head of a sleeper cell in India and was assigned to carry out terror strikes during the festival season at the behest of Pakistan's ISI.

Based on his interrogation, raids were carried out in and around the Trans-Yamuna area and one AK-47 assault rifle, one hand grenade, two magazines of AK-47 along with 60 rounds, two sophisticated China-made pistols along with 50 rounds, and one Indian passport and other Indian IDs obtained on forged documents were recovered from his possession, the police claimed.

Ashraf came to India via Bangladesh and had been staying in the country for over a decade as Ali Ahmed Noorie.

On Monday, information was received that Ashraf was staying in the area of Laxmi Nagar. Thereafter, a team was deployed at Laxmi Nagar area and it apprehended Ashraf,&nbsp;Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) Pramod Singh Kushwaha said.

The police said that with the arrest of Ashraf, a possible terror strike during the festival season has been averted.

The police got a tip-off around two months ago regarding an active sleeper cell, officials said.

They found that a Pakistani national has been directed to undertake terror attacks in India and was in an advanced stage of preparation for procuring arms and explosives.

It was also learnt that Ashraf has been an active part of a sleeper cell and has carried out many terror attacks and espionage activities in India in the last several years, police said.

He has managed to obtain Indian identities and had been living in Delhi while posing as a 'maulana' (religious preacher), they said.

A case under relevant provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Explosives Act and Arms Act has been registered in order to thoroughly investigate the matter and to prevent any terror attack, the police said.

Ashraf was recruited by the Pakistani spy agency ISI directly after he completed his Class X and was trained for six months, he said.

He had been staying in India using the fake identity of Ali Ahmed Noori, a resident of Shastri Park in Delhi, the DCP said.

In 2004, he got his training from an ISI handler code name Nasir' in Sialkot, Pakistan. Nasir motivated him to work as a sleeper cell for subversive activities for Pakistan in India, police said.

After completion of his training, Ashraf managed to enter India through the Siliguri border, West Bengal during the same year. He stayed in Siliguri for a couple of months and later went to Ajmer and befriended a cleric at a local mosque in Ajmer, police said.

In 2006, he accompanied the cleric to Delhi. He came to a factory of a relative of the cleric in the walled city area and started Tilawat (daily wages prayer job) at factories in that locality, they said.

He met other relatives of the cleric and managed to win over their trust and started receiving money from his ISI handler via money transfer through their IDs, police said.

During his stay in India, he was in regular touch with his handler Nasir through different secure communication channels of social media.

Recently, he was tasked by his Pakistani handler to carry out terror strikes during the festival season and the recovered arms and ammunition were arranged by the Pakistani handler to carry out the same, Kushwaha said.

Officials said Ashraf was supposed to get information from Nasir about the planned terror attack. He has changed five-six locations in over a decade, they said.

He never stayed at any specific location for long and to acquire documents, he also got married to a woman in Vaishali, Ghaziabad for a couple of months and later left his wife. He lived in India in various places, including Delhi, Ajmer, Ghaziabad, Jammu and Udhampur, they said.

He established his Indian identity from a village in Bihar after his marriage. Later, he made ID cards on other addresses and on the basis of those documents, he got his passport made in 2014. He had visited Saudi Arabia and Thailand, police said, adding that the dates are being verified.

He has a permanent address of Bihar and has different addresses on other IDs, they said.

He portrayed himself as 'Peer Maulana' and claimed to cure diseases by reading Ayats from Quran in Delhi and nearby areas. He has two hideouts in Delhi -- one in the walled city and the other one in Laxmi Nagar, police said.

Further investigations are on including if a lone wolf attack had been planned. The identification of the source of the weapon is also underway, police said

The Delhi Police on Tuesday said it has foiled a major terror plan during the festival season with the arrest of a 40-year-old Pakistani terrorist who has ISI links and had been living in India for over ten years under a fake identity.

The Delhi Police on Tuesday said it has foiled a major terror plan during the festival season with the arrest of a 40-year-old Pakistani terrorist who has ISI links and had been living in India for over ten years under a fake identity. Mohammad Ashraf alias Ali Ahmed Noorie, a resident of Naroval in Pakistan's Punjab province, was arrested from east Delhi's Laxmi Nagar, officials said, adding he is also suspected to be involved in terror strikes in Jammu and Kashmir and other parts of India in the past. The police said that preliminary interrogation revealed that Ashraf had been acting as head of a sleeper cell in India and was assigned to carry out terror strikes during the festival season at the behest of Pakistan's ISI. Based on his interrogation, raids were carried out in and around the Trans-Yamuna area and one AK-47 assault rifle, one hand grenade, two magazines of AK-47 along with 60 rounds, two sophisticated China-made pistols along with 50 rounds, and one Indian passport and other Indian IDs obtained on forged documents were recovered from his possession, the police claimed. Ashraf came to India via Bangladesh and had been staying in the country for over a decade as Ali Ahmed Noorie. On Monday, information was received that Ashraf was staying in the area of Laxmi Nagar. Thereafter, a team was deployed at Laxmi Nagar area and it apprehended Ashraf, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Special Cell) Pramod Singh Kushwaha said. The police said that with the arrest of Ashraf, a possible terror strike during the festival season has been averted. The police got a tip-off around two months ago regarding an active sleeper cell, officials said. They found that a Pakistani national has been directed to undertake terror attacks in India and was in an advanced stage of preparation for procuring arms and explosives. It was also learnt that Ashraf has been an active part of a sleeper cell and has carried out many terror attacks and espionage activities in India in the last several years, police said. He has managed to obtain Indian identities and had been living in Delhi while posing as a 'maulana' (religious preacher), they said. A case under relevant provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Explosives Act and Arms Act has been registered in order to thoroughly investigate the matter and to prevent any terror attack, the police said. Ashraf was recruited by the Pakistani spy agency ISI directly after he completed his Class X and was trained for six months, he said. He had been staying in India using the fake identity of Ali Ahmed Noori, a resident of Shastri Park in Delhi, the DCP said. In 2004, he got his training from an ISI handler code name Nasir' in Sialkot, Pakistan. Nasir motivated him to work as a sleeper cell for subversive activities for Pakistan in India, police said. After completion of his training, Ashraf managed to enter India through the Siliguri border, West Bengal during the same year. He stayed in Siliguri for a couple of months and later went to Ajmer and befriended a cleric at a local mosque in Ajmer, police said. In 2006, he accompanied the cleric to Delhi. He came to a factory of a relative of the cleric in the walled city area and started Tilawat (daily wages prayer job) at factories in that locality, they said. He met other relatives of the cleric and managed to win over their trust and started receiving money from his ISI handler via money transfer through their IDs, police said. During his stay in India, he was in regular touch with his handler Nasir through different secure communication channels of social media. Recently, he was tasked by his Pakistani handler to carry out terror strikes during the festival season and the recovered arms and ammunition were arranged by the Pakistani handler to carry out the same, Kushwaha said. Officials said Ashraf was supposed to get information from Nasir about the planned terror attack. He has changed five-six locations in over a decade, they said. He never stayed at any specific location for long and to acquire documents, he also got married to a woman in Vaishali, Ghaziabad for a couple of months and later left his wife. He lived in India in various places, including Delhi, Ajmer, Ghaziabad, Jammu and Udhampur, they said. He established his Indian identity from a village in Bihar after his marriage. Later, he made ID cards on other addresses and on the basis of those documents, he got his passport made in 2014. He had visited Saudi Arabia and Thailand, police said, adding that the dates are being verified. He has a permanent address of Bihar and has different addresses on other IDs, they said. He portrayed himself as 'Peer Maulana' and claimed to cure diseases by reading Ayats from Quran in Delhi and nearby areas. He has two hideouts in Delhi -- one in the walled city and the other one in Laxmi Nagar, police said. Further investigations are on including if a lone wolf attack had been planned. The identification of the source of the weapon is also underway, police said

Pakistani terrorist arrested, was living in India under fake identity for over 10 years: Delhi Police

A group of terrorists killed two teachers inside a school in Srinagar. In the last 5 days, 7 civilians have been killed in Kashmir. Terrorist groups are trying to revive themselves in the valley with help from outside. Palki Sharma tells you how.

Gravitas: Terrorist groups are attempting a revival in Kashmir

A top US official called Friday for Pakistan to take action against all extremist groups ahead of a visit to Islamabad, which has sought reconciliation with militants both at home and in Afghanistan.

Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman will meet on October 7-8 with officials in Pakistan, which has long faced US accusations of playing a double game in Afghanistan where the Taliban swept back to power in August.

"We seek a strong partnership with Pakistan on counterterrorism and we expect sustained action against all militant and terrorist groups without distinction," Sherman told reporters.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-pakistan-stop-aiding-terrorists-ever-416801">Will Pakistan stop aiding terrorists ever?</a> &nbsp;

"Both of our countries have suffered terribly from the scourge of terrorism and we look forward to cooperative efforts to eliminate all regional and global terrorist threats," she said from Switzerland, her first stop on a trip that will also take her to India and Uzbekistan.

Pakistan points to its efforts against militants and the thousands who have died in attacks at home, but it has also faced criticism for not doing more to curb Islamist radicals that target neighbour and arch-rival India.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, a longtime critic of US military campaigns, said in an interview aired Friday that his government had opened talks with the Pakistani Taliban about laying down their arms.

"Some of the Pakistani Taliban groups actually want to talk to our government for some peace, for some reconciliation," he told Turkey's TRT World television.

He said the discussions were taking place in Afghanistan with sections of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, which has waged years of deadly attacks.

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"I repeat, I do not believe in military solutions," Khan said.

Khan has encouraged the world to engage Afghanistan's Taliban and provide economic support, although he has stopped short of backing recognition -- a step opposed by the United States.

Sherman praised Pakistan's calls for an inclusive government in Afghanistan.

"We look to Pakistan to play a critical role in enabling that outcome," she said.

Pakistan, a Cold War ally of the United States, was one of only three nations to recognize the Taliban's hardline 1996-2001 regime, but quickly backed the US-led war to oust them after the September 11, 2001 attacks.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-senators-seek-probe-into-pakistans-role-in-talibans-afghan-victory-416821" hreflang="en">US senators seek probe into Pakistan's role in Taliban’s Afghan victory</a>

US officials say the segments of Pakistan's powerful intelligence service maintained backing for the Taliban, in part due to the former Western-backed Afghan government's close ties with India.

A top US official called Friday for Pakistan to take action against all extremist groups ahead of a visit to Islamabad, which has sought reconciliation with militants both at home and in Afghanistan.

A top US official called Friday for Pakistan to take action against all extremist groups ahead of a visit to Islamabad, which has sought reconciliation with militants both at home and in Afghanistan. Deputy Secretary of State Wendy Sherman will meet on October 7-8 with officials in Pakistan, which has long faced US accusations of playing a double game in Afghanistan where the Taliban swept back to power in August. "We seek a strong partnership with Pakistan on counterterrorism and we expect sustained action against all militant and terrorist groups without distinction," Sherman told reporters. Also read | Will Pakistan stop aiding terrorists ever? "Both of our countries have suffered terribly from the scourge of terrorism and we look forward to cooperative efforts to eliminate all regional and global terrorist threats," she said from Switzerland, her first stop on a trip that will also take her to India and Uzbekistan. Pakistan points to its efforts against militants and the thousands who have died in attacks at home, but it has also faced criticism for not doing more to curb Islamist radicals that target neighbour and arch-rival India. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, a longtime critic of US military campaigns, said in an interview aired Friday that his government had opened talks with the Pakistani Taliban about laying down their arms. "Some of the Pakistani Taliban groups actually want to talk to our government for some peace, for some reconciliation," he told Turkey's TRT World television. He said the discussions were taking place in Afghanistan with sections of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan, which has waged years of deadly attacks. Also read | Pakistan ponders ways to help Taliban regime in Afghanistan ‘officially’ without international recognition "I repeat, I do not believe in military solutions," Khan said. Khan has encouraged the world to engage Afghanistan's Taliban and provide economic support, although he has stopped short of backing recognition -- a step opposed by the United States. Sherman praised Pakistan's calls for an inclusive government in Afghanistan. "We look to Pakistan to play a critical role in enabling that outcome," she said. Pakistan, a Cold War ally of the United States, was one of only three nations to recognize the Taliban's hardline 1996-2001 regime, but quickly backed the US-led war to oust them after the September 11, 2001 attacks. Also Read: US senators seek probe into Pakistan's role in Taliban’s Afghan victory US officials say the segments of Pakistan's powerful intelligence service maintained backing for the Taliban, in part due to the former Western-backed Afghan government's close ties with India.

Ahead of Pakistan visit, US officials call for action against militants, extremist groups

When you eat too much, you might get into a lot of problems.Obesity not only causes health problems, but it may also lead to you being arrested by the cops if you are a fugitive.&nbsp;

A suspected British terrorist who gained six stone after fleeing Islamic State was apprehended because of his kebab obsession.

While on the run, former rapper Abdel-Majed Abdel Bary, 31, put on so much weight that Spanish cops had to use his ears to identify him.

The Londoner had fought alongside Islamic State in Syria and was mistaken for the group's leading beheader, Jihadi John.

He escaped Syria for Algeria, where he was apprehended in 2020 with two associates after receiving kebab orders.

Due to a social media post, detectives recognised suspected Algerian fixer and people smuggler Adbeizerrak Seddiki as the guy buying kebabs online.&nbsp;

They watched the address in Almeria, Spain's south east, before swooping in on Abdel Bary as the suspected terror group received their third kebab delivery.

According to the Spanish newspaper El Pais, Seddiki ordered takeout meals from The Kebab Shop on April 15, 2020, at 10.46 p.m. local time, five days before his arrest.&nbsp;

When you eat too much, you might get into a lot of problems.Obesity not only causes health problems, but it may also lead to you being arrested by the cops if you are a fugitive.

When you eat too much, you might get into a lot of problems.Obesity not only causes health problems, but it may also lead to you being arrested by the cops if you are a fugitive. A suspected British terrorist who gained six stone after fleeing Islamic State was apprehended because of his kebab obsession. While on the run, former rapper Abdel-Majed Abdel Bary, 31, put on so much weight that Spanish cops had to use his ears to identify him. The Londoner had fought alongside Islamic State in Syria and was mistaken for the group's leading beheader, Jihadi John. He escaped Syria for Algeria, where he was apprehended in 2020 with two associates after receiving kebab orders. Due to a social media post, detectives recognised suspected Algerian fixer and people smuggler Adbeizerrak Seddiki as the guy buying kebabs online. They watched the address in Almeria, Spain's south east, before swooping in on Abdel Bary as the suspected terror group received their third kebab delivery. According to the Spanish newspaper El Pais, Seddiki ordered takeout meals from The Kebab Shop on April 15, 2020, at 10.46 p.m. local time, five days before his arrest.

How an ISIS terrorist's craving for kebab landed him in police net

Terrorist organisation Hizbul Mujahideen's chief, Syed Salahuddin, has released an audio message threatening India.

In this audio message, he requested the Taliban militants for assistance in spreading terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

In the celebratory statement posted online, Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin said, "I pray to Allah that he strengthens the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan so that they may support Kashmiris against India."&nbsp; 
 
Watch | Will India recognise the Taliban in Afghanistan?

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Meanwhile, despite the Taliban's conciliatory tone, Afghans and foreigners continue to flee Kabul.

A top US general says Thursday the US has airlifted 7,000 people since evacuations began on August 14.

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After the Taliban kill a relative of a journalist for the German state broadcaster as they search for the reporter, a UN intelligence report Friday says militants have been conducting "targeted door-to-door visits" searching for opponents and their families.&nbsp;

A German civilian is also shot on his way to Kabul airport.

However, India's security officers are evaluating the impact on Kashmir.

The US exit and the emergence of the Taliban, similar to what happened following the Soviet pullout from Afghanistan in the late 1980s, might reignite terrorism in Kashmir, especially now that India's emphasis has turned from Pakistan to China.

(With inputs from agencies)

Terrorist organisation Hizbul Mujahideen's chief, Syed Salahuddin, has released an audio message threatening India. In this audio message, he requested the Taliban militants for assistance in spreading terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Terrorist organisation Hizbul Mujahideen's chief, Syed Salahuddin, has released an audio message threatening India. In this audio message, he requested the Taliban militants for assistance in spreading terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. In the celebratory statement posted online, Hizbul Mujahideen chief Syed Salahuddin said, "I pray to Allah that he strengthens the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan so that they may support Kashmiris against India." Watch | Will India recognise the Taliban in Afghanistan? Meanwhile, despite the Taliban's conciliatory tone, Afghans and foreigners continue to flee Kabul. A top US general says Thursday the US has airlifted 7,000 people since evacuations began on August 14. × After the Taliban kill a relative of a journalist for the German state broadcaster as they search for the reporter, a UN intelligence report Friday says militants have been conducting "targeted door-to-door visits" searching for opponents and their families. A German civilian is also shot on his way to Kabul airport. However, India's security officers are evaluating the impact on Kashmir. The US exit and the emergence of the Taliban, similar to what happened following the Soviet pullout from Afghanistan in the late 1980s, might reignite terrorism in Kashmir, especially now that India's emphasis has turned from Pakistan to China. (With inputs from agencies)

Hizbul Mujahideen's chief, Syed Salahuddin, seeks support from Taliban to attack India

Abu Omar Khorasani was taken from Kabul’s Pul-i-Charkhi prison and unceremoniously shot. The first and only person to have been executed since the Taliban gained full control of Afghanistan, Mr Khorasani was the head of the Islamic State in South Asia until he was arrested by government forces last year.

The precise circumstances of his execution are not known. His killing was, however, at least in part designed to send a message to the international community, and particularly Afghanistan’s neighbours, including China and Iran, as well as Russia, Central Asia’s security overlord.

The message was that the Taliban were cracking down on foreign jihadists and militants in Afghanistan. Mr Khorasani was an easy symbol. The Taliban and the Islamic State, whose ranks of foreigners are primarily populated by Pakistanis and a sprinkling of Central Asians, Uighurs, Russians, Turks, Iranians, Indonesians, Indians, and Frenchmen, have long been adversarial. The Islamic State recently accused the Taliban of being more nationalist than pious in their negotiations with the United States.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/opinion-return-of-taliban-what-does-it-mean-for-india-and-the-world-406612">Opinion | Return of Taliban: What does it mean for India and the World?</a>

The Taliban message is a partial truth at best. What is true for the Islamic State is not true for Al-Qaeda and others such as the Uighur Turkestan Islamic Party (TIP) and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan.

The Taliban appear to believe that they can get away with the differentiation because they perceived the United States as more focused in the withdrawal negotiations on ensuring that the Islamic State, Al-Qaeda, and other militants will not be allowed to use Afghanistan as a base for international operations rather than on getting them expelled from the country.

The perceived US focus may have been rooted in a concern that if Taliban’s hands were forced, they would let militants slip out of the country and not hand them over to authorities. That would make it difficult to control their movements or ensure that they are either entered into deradicalization programs or, if warranted, brought to justice.

“It’s a Catch-22. The Taliban ensuring that Al Qaeda sticks to rule risks putting a fox in charge of the chicken coop. How much better that is than having foxes run wild remains to be seen,” said a retired counter-terrorism official.

Officials of the Trump administration that negotiated the agreement suggest that the continued presence of Al-Qaeda and other militants in Afghanistan would violate the accord with the Taliban.

Former US Vice President Mike Pence as well as Trump era State Department counterterrorism coordinator Nathan Sales argued that the deal “required the Taliban…to refuse terrorists safe harbour.”

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-too-big-for-pakistan-to-swallow-says-self-proclaimed-president-amarullah-saleh-406900">Afghanistan too big for Pakistan to swallow, says self-proclaimed president Amarullah Saleh</a>

Russia and China, while publicly more measured in their statements, are likely to share western concerns.&nbsp;Russia held military drills earlier this month with Tajik and Uzbek troops in Tajikistan, 20 kilometres from the border with Afghanistan.

Al-Qaeda may have been boosted in recent weeks by multiple prison breaks in which the Taliban freed operatives of Al-Qaeda and other militant groups. It remains unclear however to what degree the breaks will help the group strengthen its presence in Afghanistan.

General Mark Milley, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, warned this week that Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State could quickly rebuild their networks in Afghanistan.

The United Nations recently reported that Al-Qaeda “is present in at least 15 Afghan provinces”, and that its affiliate in the Indian subcontinent, “operates under Taliban protection from Kandahar, Helmand and Nimruz provinces.”&nbsp;

“Without information on who exactly escaped, it is difficult to determine whether historically significant figures remain within AQ’s AfPak network, or if it is mainly composed of newer figures these days, whether local or regional foreign fighters,” cautioned political violence scholar Aaron Y. Zelin. Mr Zelin was referring to Al-Qaeda’s Afghanistan-Pakistan network.

Also unclear is whether Al-Qaeda operatives in Iran will be allowed to relocate to Afghanistan. 
The prison breaks further go to concerns about relying on the Taliban to police jihadists and other militants with aspirations beyond Afghanistan’s borders. Of particular concern is the fact that the balance of power has yet to be determined between Taliban leaders who in recent days have been eager to put a more moderate, accommodating foot forward with security guarantees for their opponents, minorities and women and the group’s far-flung less polished rank and file.

The concern about the Taliban’s ability and willingness to control militant activity on Afghan soil is magnified by worry regarding the continued existence of warlords with the power to organise violence, provide jobs and public services, and forge or strengthen ties with militants.

“Warlords will play an active role in the future of Afghanistan. They will remain businessmen and political leaders, connected to global economic processes and networks. They will develop the military power that they need to control territory and wage war. They will, finally, continue to fight for more autonomy and, in some cases, might even manage to partially form their old regional polities once again,” said Romain Malejacq, author of a book on Afghan warlords.

“Afghanistan’s availability as a sanctuary for terrorists is, to say the least, related to its status as a warlord-ridden wasteland,” said journalist and author Graeme Wood.

The Taliban’s refusal to expel militants not only complicates the group’s efforts to garner legitimacy in the international community and particularly its neighbours, even if Al-Qaeda has been significantly weakened since 9/11 and is less focussed on attacking the United States and more on the Muslim world.

It also strengthens those who fear that Afghanistan will again emerge as a launching pad for trans-national political violence. “We are going to go back to a pre-9/11 state—a breeding ground for terrorism,” warned Michael McCaul, the ranking Republican member of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee. “They (the Taliban) will not restrict terrorist groups, just ask them to operate low-key,” added Douglas London, a former head of CIA counterterrorism operations for South and Southwest Asia.

The Taliban proved already 20 years ago that they valued loyalty when they rejected US and Saudi pressure to hand over Osama bin Laden no matter the cost. The Taliban have since come to appreciate Al Qaeda’s fighting skills and contributions to the Afghan militants’ cause.

Taliban fighters this week, in a violation of their pledge to inclusiveness, demonstrated their ideological anti-Shiite affinity with Al-Qaeda by blowing up a statue of Abdul Ali Mazari, a Shiite Hazara militia leader killed by the Taliban when they first took power in 1996.

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Abu Omar Khorasani was taken from Kabul’s Pul-i-Charkhi prison and unceremoniously shot. The first and only person to have been executed since the Taliban gained full control of Afghanistan, Mr Khorasani was the head of the Islamic State in South Asia until he was arrested by government forces last year.

Abu Omar Khorasani was taken from Kabul’s Pul-i-Charkhi prison and unceremoniously shot. The first and only person to have been executed since the Taliban gained full control of Afghanistan, Mr Khorasani was the head of the Islamic State in South Asia until he was arrested by government forces last year. The precise circumstances of his execution are not known. His killing was, however, at least in part designed to send a message to the international community, and particularly Afghanistan’s neighbours, including China and Iran, as well as Russia, Central Asia’s security overlord. The message was that the Taliban were cracking down on foreign jihadists and militants in Afghanistan. Mr Khorasani was an easy symbol. The Taliban and the Islamic State, whose ranks of foreigners are primarily populated by Pakistanis and a sprinkling of Central Asians, Uighurs, Russians, Turks, Iranians, Indonesians, Indians, and Frenchmen, have long been adversarial. The Islamic State recently accused the Taliban of being more nationalist than pious in their negotiations with the United States. Also Read: Opinion | Return of Taliban: What does it mean for India and the World? The Taliban message is a partial truth at best. What is true for the Islamic State is not true for Al-Qaeda and others such as the Uighur Turkestan Islamic Party (TIP) and the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan. The Taliban appear to believe that they can get away with the differentiation because they perceived the United States as more focused in the withdrawal negotiations on ensuring that the Islamic State, Al-Qaeda, and other militants will not be allowed to use Afghanistan as a base for international operations rather than on getting them expelled from the country. The perceived US focus may have been rooted in a concern that if Taliban’s hands were forced, they would let militants slip out of the country and not hand them over to authorities. That would make it difficult to control their movements or ensure that they are either entered into deradicalization programs or, if warranted, brought to justice. “It’s a Catch-22. The Taliban ensuring that Al Qaeda sticks to rule risks putting a fox in charge of the chicken coop. How much better that is than having foxes run wild remains to be seen,” said a retired counter-terrorism official. Officials of the Trump administration that negotiated the agreement suggest that the continued presence of Al-Qaeda and other militants in Afghanistan would violate the accord with the Taliban. Former US Vice President Mike Pence as well as Trump era State Department counterterrorism coordinator Nathan Sales argued that the deal “required the Taliban…to refuse terrorists safe harbour.” Also Read | Afghanistan too big for Pakistan to swallow, says self-proclaimed president Amarullah Saleh Russia and China, while publicly more measured in their statements, are likely to share western concerns. Russia held military drills earlier this month with Tajik and Uzbek troops in Tajikistan, 20 kilometres from the border with Afghanistan. Al-Qaeda may have been boosted in recent weeks by multiple prison breaks in which the Taliban freed operatives of Al-Qaeda and other militant groups. It remains unclear however to what degree the breaks will help the group strengthen its presence in Afghanistan. General Mark Milley, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff, warned this week that Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State could quickly rebuild their networks in Afghanistan. The United Nations recently reported that Al-Qaeda “is present in at least 15 Afghan provinces”, and that its affiliate in the Indian subcontinent, “operates under Taliban protection from Kandahar, Helmand and Nimruz provinces.” “Without information on who exactly escaped, it is difficult to determine whether historically significant figures remain within AQ’s AfPak network, or if it is mainly composed of newer figures these days, whether local or regional foreign fighters,” cautioned political violence scholar Aaron Y. Zelin. Mr Zelin was referring to Al-Qaeda’s Afghanistan-Pakistan network. Also unclear is whether Al-Qaeda operatives in Iran will be allowed to relocate to Afghanistan. The prison breaks further go to concerns about relying on the Taliban to police jihadists and other militants with aspirations beyond Afghanistan’s borders. Of particular concern is the fact that the balance of power has yet to be determined between Taliban leaders who in recent days have been eager to put a more moderate, accommodating foot forward with security guarantees for their opponents, minorities and women and the group’s far-flung less polished rank and file. The concern about the Taliban’s ability and willingness to control militant activity on Afghan soil is magnified by worry regarding the continued existence of warlords with the power to organise violence, provide jobs and public services, and forge or strengthen ties with militants. “Warlords will play an active role in the future of Afghanistan. They will remain businessmen and political leaders, connected to global economic processes and networks. They will develop the military power that they need to control territory and wage war. They will, finally, continue to fight for more autonomy and, in some cases, might even manage to partially form their old regional polities once again,” said Romain Malejacq, author of a book on Afghan warlords. “Afghanistan’s availability as a sanctuary for terrorists is, to say the least, related to its status as a warlord-ridden wasteland,” said journalist and author Graeme Wood. The Taliban’s refusal to expel militants not only complicates the group’s efforts to garner legitimacy in the international community and particularly its neighbours, even if Al-Qaeda has been significantly weakened since 9/11 and is less focussed on attacking the United States and more on the Muslim world. It also strengthens those who fear that Afghanistan will again emerge as a launching pad for trans-national political violence. “We are going to go back to a pre-9/11 state—a breeding ground for terrorism,” warned Michael McCaul, the ranking Republican member of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee. “They (the Taliban) will not restrict terrorist groups, just ask them to operate low-key,” added Douglas London, a former head of CIA counterterrorism operations for South and Southwest Asia. The Taliban proved already 20 years ago that they valued loyalty when they rejected US and Saudi pressure to hand over Osama bin Laden no matter the cost. The Taliban have since come to appreciate Al Qaeda’s fighting skills and contributions to the Afghan militants’ cause. Taliban fighters this week, in a violation of their pledge to inclusiveness, demonstrated their ideological anti-Shiite affinity with Al-Qaeda by blowing up a statue of Abdul Ali Mazari, a Shiite Hazara militia leader killed by the Taliban when they first took power in 1996. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

Opinion | Taliban and Al-Qaeda: Putting a fox in charge of the chicken coop?

One terrorist of the proscribed terror outfit Al-Badr was killed in Budgam by security forces in a joint operation by security forces, while another terrorist of Lashkar-e-Taiba was arrested in another operation in Awantipora in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.

"During the search operation, as the presence of terrorists was ascertained, they were given an opportunity to surrender. However, instead of surrendering, they fired indiscriminately upon the joint search party, which led to an encounter, " said a press release by the police.

"In the ensuing encounter, one terrorist of the proscribed terror outfit Al-Badr was killed and his body was retrieved from the site of the encounter. He has been identified as Shakir Bashir Dar, the son of Bashir Ahmad Dar, and a resident of Goripora in Awantipora, " it added.

Acting on specific information generated by the Budgam Police about the presence of terrorists in the Mochwa area of Chadoora in the Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, a joint cordon and search operation was launched by the police, 50RR and 181BN CRPF in the said area on Saturday, a Jammu and Kashmir police official statement read.

As per police records, the killed terrorist was part of a group involved in various terror crime cases and several terror crime cases were registered against him. Shakir Bashir was earlier working as a terrorist associate with proscribed terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and joined the terror folds of proscribed terror outfit Al-Badr recently.

Incriminating materials, arms and ammunition, including 1 AK-rifle with 02 magazines, 32 rounds, 1 Chinese pistol with 2 magazines, 16 rounds, a bag-pack and a pouch were recovered from the site of the encounter.

"While the said operation was in progress, it was learnt that while laying cordon another terrorist had managed to escape from the encounter site and the information was shared with Awantipora Police. Awantipora Police, while developing the lead further launched a cordon and search operation in the Mantaqi Colony Khrew area along with 50RR and 185BN CRPF," it added.

During the search, the escaped terrorist was tracked down and arrested while hiding in a truck bearing registration No. JK13-2397. He has been identified as Shabir Ahmad Najar, a resident of Wuyan Khrew, linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT. The driver of the truck identified as Mohd Shafi Dar, a resident of Gratwani Mohalla Khrew, has also been arrested. Besides, the said truck has also been seized," the police statement read.

Incriminating materials, arms &amp; ammunition including 1 Chinese Pistol, 1 Pistol Magazine, 7 Pistol rounds, 2 AK-Magazines, 50 AK-rounds, 1 Chinese grenade, 5Kgs IED (destroyed on spot) were also recovered from the site.

IGP Kashmir has congratulated the joint teams of Police/SF for showing exemplary coordination in conducting the operation successfully in a professional manner without any collateral damage and tracking down the escaped terrorist. Besides, IGP Kashmir appeals to parents of newly recruited terrorists to bring their children back to the mainstream.

In this connection, Police have registered cases under relevant sections of law and further investigation is in progress.

One terrorist of the proscribed terror outfit Al-Badr was killed in Budgam by security forces in a joint operation by security forces, while another terrorist of Lashkar-e-Taiba was arrested in another operation in Awantipora in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.

One terrorist of the proscribed terror outfit Al-Badr was killed in Budgam by security forces in a joint operation by security forces, while another terrorist of Lashkar-e-Taiba was arrested in another operation in Awantipora in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday. "During the search operation, as the presence of terrorists was ascertained, they were given an opportunity to surrender. However, instead of surrendering, they fired indiscriminately upon the joint search party, which led to an encounter, " said a press release by the police. "In the ensuing encounter, one terrorist of the proscribed terror outfit Al-Badr was killed and his body was retrieved from the site of the encounter. He has been identified as Shakir Bashir Dar, the son of Bashir Ahmad Dar, and a resident of Goripora in Awantipora, " it added. Acting on specific information generated by the Budgam Police about the presence of terrorists in the Mochwa area of Chadoora in the Budgam district of Jammu and Kashmir, a joint cordon and search operation was launched by the police, 50RR and 181BN CRPF in the said area on Saturday, a Jammu and Kashmir police official statement read. As per police records, the killed terrorist was part of a group involved in various terror crime cases and several terror crime cases were registered against him. Shakir Bashir was earlier working as a terrorist associate with proscribed terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and joined the terror folds of proscribed terror outfit Al-Badr recently. Incriminating materials, arms and ammunition, including 1 AK-rifle with 02 magazines, 32 rounds, 1 Chinese pistol with 2 magazines, 16 rounds, a bag-pack and a pouch were recovered from the site of the encounter. "While the said operation was in progress, it was learnt that while laying cordon another terrorist had managed to escape from the encounter site and the information was shared with Awantipora Police. Awantipora Police, while developing the lead further launched a cordon and search operation in the Mantaqi Colony Khrew area along with 50RR and 185BN CRPF," it added. During the search, the escaped terrorist was tracked down and arrested while hiding in a truck bearing registration No. JK13-2397. He has been identified as Shabir Ahmad Najar, a resident of Wuyan Khrew, linked with proscribed terror outfit LeT. The driver of the truck identified as Mohd Shafi Dar, a resident of Gratwani Mohalla Khrew, has also been arrested. Besides, the said truck has also been seized," the police statement read. Incriminating materials, arms & ammunition including 1 Chinese Pistol, 1 Pistol Magazine, 7 Pistol rounds, 2 AK-Magazines, 50 AK-rounds, 1 Chinese grenade, 5Kgs IED (destroyed on spot) were also recovered from the site. IGP Kashmir has congratulated the joint teams of Police/SF for showing exemplary coordination in conducting the operation successfully in a professional manner without any collateral damage and tracking down the escaped terrorist. Besides, IGP Kashmir appeals to parents of newly recruited terrorists to bring their children back to the mainstream. In this connection, Police have registered cases under relevant sections of law and further investigation is in progress.

LeT terrorist arrested, another terrorist affiliated to Al-Badr killed by security forces in J&K

The US State Department has designated five leaders from three terrorist groups for "committing atrocities in Africa".

Bonomade Machude Omar of the Islamic State (IS)-Mozambique; Sidan ag Hitta, Salem ould Breihmatt and Ali Mohamed Rage of the Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM); and Abdikadir Mohamed Abdikadir of al-Shabaab have been designated as Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs) under Executive Order 13224, as amended, the Department said in a statement on Friday.

According to the Department, Omar leads the Military and External Affairs Departments for IS-Mozambique and serves as the senior commander and lead coordinator for all attacks conducted by the group, as well as the lead facilitator and communications conduit.

Hitta is a senior leader and commander responsible for the Kidal region in Mali within JNIM. He was among the group responsible for the January 20, 2019, attack on the MINUSMA base in Aguelhoc, Mali.

He was also responsible for hostages in the Kidal Region, said the State Department.

Breihmatt is a JNIM senior leader and emir of Arbinda and Serma in the Mopti region of Mali. He is also charged with the oversight of the group in Burkina Faso and is an explosives expert and instructor.

Rage is al-Shabaab's spokesman and a senior leader of the group. He replaced Sheikh Mukhtar Robowas al-Shabaab`s top spokesman in May 2009.

Rage has been involved in attack planning that has targeted areas in Kenya and Somalia.

Abdikadir is a facilitator and operational planner. As of November 2019, Abdikadirwas an al-Shabaab senior leader and served as the Head of Operations and Logistics.

Taking to Twitter, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: "Today, the State Department designated five leaders from IS-Mozambique, JNIM, and al-Shabaab, terrorist groups that have committed atrocities in Africa.

"The US is committed to disrupting terrorist financing, limiting their ability to conduct attacks against civilians."

The US State Department has designated five leaders from three terrorist groups for "committing atrocities in Africa". Bonomade Machude Omar of the Islamic State (IS)-Mozambique; Sidan ag Hitta, Salem ould Breihmatt and Ali Mohamed Rage of the Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM); and Abdikadir Mohamed Abdikadir of al-Shabaab have been designated as Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs) under Executive Order 13224, as amended, the Department said in a statement on Friday.

The US State Department has designated five leaders from three terrorist groups for "committing atrocities in Africa". Bonomade Machude Omar of the Islamic State (IS)-Mozambique; Sidan ag Hitta, Salem ould Breihmatt and Ali Mohamed Rage of the Jama'at Nasr al-Islam wal Muslimin (JNIM); and Abdikadir Mohamed Abdikadir of al-Shabaab have been designated as Specially Designated Global Terrorists (SDGTs) under Executive Order 13224, as amended, the Department said in a statement on Friday. According to the Department, Omar leads the Military and External Affairs Departments for IS-Mozambique and serves as the senior commander and lead coordinator for all attacks conducted by the group, as well as the lead facilitator and communications conduit. Hitta is a senior leader and commander responsible for the Kidal region in Mali within JNIM. He was among the group responsible for the January 20, 2019, attack on the MINUSMA base in Aguelhoc, Mali. He was also responsible for hostages in the Kidal Region, said the State Department. Breihmatt is a JNIM senior leader and emir of Arbinda and Serma in the Mopti region of Mali. He is also charged with the oversight of the group in Burkina Faso and is an explosives expert and instructor. Rage is al-Shabaab's spokesman and a senior leader of the group. He replaced Sheikh Mukhtar Robowas al-Shabaab`s top spokesman in May 2009. Rage has been involved in attack planning that has targeted areas in Kenya and Somalia. Abdikadir is a facilitator and operational planner. As of November 2019, Abdikadirwas an al-Shabaab senior leader and served as the Head of Operations and Logistics. Taking to Twitter, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said: "Today, the State Department designated five leaders from IS-Mozambique, JNIM, and al-Shabaab, terrorist groups that have committed atrocities in Africa. "The US is committed to disrupting terrorist financing, limiting their ability to conduct attacks against civilians."

United States adds 5 terrorist commanders to global list for 'committing atrocities in Africa'

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Pakistani cross-border shooting decreased sharply in Jammu and Kashmir till June, compared to the number of ceasefire breaches documented in 2020. (MHA).&nbsp;

Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai stated 664 incidents of ceasefire breaches were recorded through June in a written response to queries from Lok Sabha members Asaduddin Owaisi and Krishna Pal Singh Yadav.

After 2,140 in 2018, the overall number increased to 3,479 in 2019 and 5,133 in 2020.&nbsp;

"As many as 664 instances of ceasefire violations were reported till June. While 2,140 ceasefire violations were recorded in 2018, the total figure stood at 3,479 in 2019 and 5,133 in 2020," Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai said.

As per data available, Rai also mentioned that there was "no any trend observed during a certain period of a particular year"."Following scheduled talks between the Directors General of Military Operations of India and Pakistan over the hotline, a Joint Statement was issued on February 25 this year, in which both India and Pakistan agreed to the strict observance of all agreements, understandings and ceasefire along the Line of Control and all other sectors with effect from the midnight of February 24/25, 2021.

"Government`s consistent position has been that India desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan and is committed to addressing issues, if any, bilaterally and peacefully in an atmosphere free of terror, hostility and violence. The onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere by taking credible, verifiable and irreversible action to not allow any territory under its control to be used for cross-border terrorism against India in any manner," said the minister."India and Pakistan continue to maintain regular channels of communication through the respective High Commissions and other established mechanisms," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Pakistani cross-border shooting decreased sharply in Jammu and Kashmir till June, compared to the number of ceasefire breaches documented in 2020.

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, Pakistani cross-border shooting decreased sharply in Jammu and Kashmir till June, compared to the number of ceasefire breaches documented in 2020. (MHA). Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai stated 664 incidents of ceasefire breaches were recorded through June in a written response to queries from Lok Sabha members Asaduddin Owaisi and Krishna Pal Singh Yadav. After 2,140 in 2018, the overall number increased to 3,479 in 2019 and 5,133 in 2020. "As many as 664 instances of ceasefire violations were reported till June. While 2,140 ceasefire violations were recorded in 2018, the total figure stood at 3,479 in 2019 and 5,133 in 2020," Minister of State for Home Affairs Nityanand Rai said. As per data available, Rai also mentioned that there was "no any trend observed during a certain period of a particular year"."Following scheduled talks between the Directors General of Military Operations of India and Pakistan over the hotline, a Joint Statement was issued on February 25 this year, in which both India and Pakistan agreed to the strict observance of all agreements, understandings and ceasefire along the Line of Control and all other sectors with effect from the midnight of February 24/25, 2021. "Government`s consistent position has been that India desires normal neighbourly relations with Pakistan and is committed to addressing issues, if any, bilaterally and peacefully in an atmosphere free of terror, hostility and violence. The onus is on Pakistan to create such a conducive atmosphere by taking credible, verifiable and irreversible action to not allow any territory under its control to be used for cross-border terrorism against India in any manner," said the minister."India and Pakistan continue to maintain regular channels of communication through the respective High Commissions and other established mechanisms," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

664 ceasefire violations this year in Jammu and Kashmir by Pakistan: MHA

South Korean shooter Jin Jong-oh has lashed out at the International Olympic Committee labelling gold medal winner Javad Foroughi, who is a member of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps a "terrorist".&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-medal-is-only-one-that-is-gold-boxer-lovlina-borgohain-eyes-real-deal-at-olympics-401781" hreflang="en">Tokyo 2020: 'Medal is only one. That is gold': Boxer Lovlina Borgohain eyes real deal at Olympics</a>

Javad Foroughi won the gold medal in the 10-metre air pistol event on Saturday.

In a report by The Korea Times, Jin Jong-oh was furious when he arrived at Incheon International Airport. "How can a terrorist win first place (at the Olympics)? That's the most absurd and ridiculous thing," he told reporters.&nbsp;

Jin Jong-oh won a gold medal in the men's 10-meter air pistol event at the 2012 London Olympics and got a silver medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, however, he failed to go past the qualification stage in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020.

Korean marksman's comment came after the Iranian human rights athletic organization, United for Navid, issued a statement following Foroughi's victory.

"We consider the awarding of an Olympic Gold Medal to Iran marksman Javad Foroughi not only a catastrophe for Iranian sports but also for the international community, and especially the reputation of the IOC. The 41-year old Foroughi is a current and longtime member of a terrorist organization," it said in a statement.

"We call for an immediate investigation by the IOC, and until an investigation is completed the suspension of any medal award."

The 41-year-old Iranian, who had said that he served in Syria as a nurse between 2013 and 2015, delivered a military salute on the podium.&nbsp;

South Korean shooter Jin Jong-oh has lashed out at the International Olympic Committee labelling gold medal winner Javad Foroughi, who is a member of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps a "terrorist".

South Korean shooter Jin Jong-oh has lashed out at the International Olympic Committee labelling gold medal winner Javad Foroughi, who is a member of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps a "terrorist". ALSO READ: Tokyo 2020: 'Medal is only one. That is gold': Boxer Lovlina Borgohain eyes real deal at Olympics Javad Foroughi won the gold medal in the 10-metre air pistol event on Saturday. In a report by The Korea Times, Jin Jong-oh was furious when he arrived at Incheon International Airport. "How can a terrorist win first place (at the Olympics)? That's the most absurd and ridiculous thing," he told reporters. Jin Jong-oh won a gold medal in the men's 10-meter air pistol event at the 2012 London Olympics and got a silver medal in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, however, he failed to go past the qualification stage in the ongoing Tokyo Olympics 2020. Korean marksman's comment came after the Iranian human rights athletic organization, United for Navid, issued a statement following Foroughi's victory. "We consider the awarding of an Olympic Gold Medal to Iran marksman Javad Foroughi not only a catastrophe for Iranian sports but also for the international community, and especially the reputation of the IOC. The 41-year old Foroughi is a current and longtime member of a terrorist organization," it said in a statement. "We call for an immediate investigation by the IOC, and until an investigation is completed the suspension of any medal award." The 41-year-old Iranian, who had said that he served in Syria as a nurse between 2013 and 2015, delivered a military salute on the podium.

'How can a terrorist win gold at the Tokyo Olympics': Korean slams IOC over Iranian shooter

Top Army and police officials claimed on Saturday that security forces had killed 89 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir this year, including seven Pakistani nationals, while maintaining that over 200 ultras remain active in the union territory.&nbsp;

"Seven of the 89 terrorists were FTs (foreign terrorists or Pakistanis).Although the number is lower than previous year, more top commanders have been slain this year "Vijay Kumar, Kashmir's Inspector General of Police (IGP), said.&nbsp;

He was speaking at a joint news conference with Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey, the Army's 15 Corps commander, and Major Gen Rashim Bali, the commander of the Victor Force in south Kashmir.

Lt Gen Pandey responded to a query regarding the number of militants in J&amp;K by saying that around 200-225 ultras were operating across the UT.

He did say, however, that no successful infiltrations along the Line of Control (LoC) have occurred this year.&nbsp;

"There has been information about one or two infiltrations. We have launched operations, which are on to check or neutralise them (infiltrators). But, according to ground inputs, there has been no successful infiltration or intrusion in the 15 Corps zone in the Valley so far," LT Gen Pandey said.

(With inputs from agencies)

Top Army and police officials claimed on Saturday that security forces had killed 89 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir this year, including seven Pakistani nationals, while maintaining that over 200 ultras remain active in the union territory.

Top Army and police officials claimed on Saturday that security forces had killed 89 terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir this year, including seven Pakistani nationals, while maintaining that over 200 ultras remain active in the union territory. "Seven of the 89 terrorists were FTs (foreign terrorists or Pakistanis).Although the number is lower than previous year, more top commanders have been slain this year "Vijay Kumar, Kashmir's Inspector General of Police (IGP), said. He was speaking at a joint news conference with Lieutenant General Devendra Pratap Pandey, the Army's 15 Corps commander, and Major Gen Rashim Bali, the commander of the Victor Force in south Kashmir. Lt Gen Pandey responded to a query regarding the number of militants in J&K by saying that around 200-225 ultras were operating across the UT. He did say, however, that no successful infiltrations along the Line of Control (LoC) have occurred this year. "There has been information about one or two infiltrations. We have launched operations, which are on to check or neutralise them (infiltrators). But, according to ground inputs, there has been no successful infiltration or intrusion in the 15 Corps zone in the Valley so far," LT Gen Pandey said. (With inputs from agencies)

89 terrorists killed in Jammu and Kashmir this year; over 200 still active

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday carried out searches at 15 locations in Jammu and Kashmir in connection with two cases and arrested one Irfan Ahmed Dar, who provided logistic support and also arranged arms and ammunition for Lashkar-e-Mustafa (LeM) terrorists.

An NIA spokesperson said that the anti-terror probe agency carried out searches at nine locations in Jammu and Kashmir in connection with the LeM case which it registered in March this year, besides raiding six places in connection with the recovery of 5 kg IED from a Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist in Jammu on June 27 this year.

The official said that in the LeM case, the NIA, along with J&amp;K police and CRPF, conducted searches at nine locations in Shopian, Anantnag and Jammu districts.

The official further said that the NIA recovered many digital devices, including mobile phones, hard disks, memory cards, pen drives and laptops, along with several booklets containing incriminating materials from the premises of the arrested accused and the suspects in the case.

"After the searches, Dar, a resident of Anantnag, was arrested on Saturday," the official said.

The official added that preliminary investigation has revealed that Dar was involved in the conspiracy of carrying out terrorist activities in collusion with other arrested accused persons.

Another NIA official said, "Dar provided logistic support to the members of the newly formed LeM. He was also instrumental in procuring arms and ammunition and then providing them to the LeM terrorists."

The NIA had registered a case in connection with the conspiracy hatched by LeM and its chief, Hidayat-ullah Malik, who recced the office of National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, working at the behest of Pakistan-based proscribed terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), to carry out terrorist activities in Jammu in March this year.

Last week, the NIA had arrested two LeM terrorists -- Mohammaf Arman Ali aka Arman Mansuri, and Mohammad Ehsanullah aka Guddu Ansari -- both residents of Bihar`s Saran district. The duo was involved in transportation of two separate consignments of illegal arms and ammunition from Bihar to Mohali and Ambala.

"The said weapons were further transported to Hidayat Ullah Malik, a self-declared commander-in-chief of LeM in Jammu and Kashmir," the official said.

The case was originally registered on February 6 this year in Jammu in connection with a conspiracy hatched by the members of LeM, an offshoot of Jaish-e-Mohammed, to carry out terrorist activities in J&amp;K with an intention to threaten the sovereignty, integrity and security of India.

The NIA had taken over the probe on March 2.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday carried out searches at 15 locations in Jammu and Kashmir in connection with two cases and arrested one Irfan Ahmed Dar, who provided logistic support and also arranged arms and ammunition for Lashkar-e-Mustafa (LeM) terrorists.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Saturday carried out searches at 15 locations in Jammu and Kashmir in connection with two cases and arrested one Irfan Ahmed Dar, who provided logistic support and also arranged arms and ammunition for Lashkar-e-Mustafa (LeM) terrorists. An NIA spokesperson said that the anti-terror probe agency carried out searches at nine locations in Jammu and Kashmir in connection with the LeM case which it registered in March this year, besides raiding six places in connection with the recovery of 5 kg IED from a Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist in Jammu on June 27 this year. The official said that in the LeM case, the NIA, along with J&K police and CRPF, conducted searches at nine locations in Shopian, Anantnag and Jammu districts. The official further said that the NIA recovered many digital devices, including mobile phones, hard disks, memory cards, pen drives and laptops, along with several booklets containing incriminating materials from the premises of the arrested accused and the suspects in the case. "After the searches, Dar, a resident of Anantnag, was arrested on Saturday," the official said. The official added that preliminary investigation has revealed that Dar was involved in the conspiracy of carrying out terrorist activities in collusion with other arrested accused persons. Another NIA official said, "Dar provided logistic support to the members of the newly formed LeM. He was also instrumental in procuring arms and ammunition and then providing them to the LeM terrorists." The NIA had registered a case in connection with the conspiracy hatched by LeM and its chief, Hidayat-ullah Malik, who recced the office of National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, working at the behest of Pakistan-based proscribed terrorist organisation Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM), to carry out terrorist activities in Jammu in March this year. Last week, the NIA had arrested two LeM terrorists -- Mohammaf Arman Ali aka Arman Mansuri, and Mohammad Ehsanullah aka Guddu Ansari -- both residents of Bihar`s Saran district. The duo was involved in transportation of two separate consignments of illegal arms and ammunition from Bihar to Mohali and Ambala. "The said weapons were further transported to Hidayat Ullah Malik, a self-declared commander-in-chief of LeM in Jammu and Kashmir," the official said. The case was originally registered on February 6 this year in Jammu in connection with a conspiracy hatched by the members of LeM, an offshoot of Jaish-e-Mohammed, to carry out terrorist activities in J&K with an intention to threaten the sovereignty, integrity and security of India. The NIA had taken over the probe on March 2.

NIA searches 15 locations in J&K in 2 cases, arrests LeM terrorist

The Indian Army has begun deploying women soldiers for conducting search operations in the Kashmir Valley. These women soldiers from Assam Rifles will be instrumental in maintaining peace in the valley.

These soldiers have been deployed in areas like Ganderbal district in central Kashmir. They have been also deployed at motor-vehicle checkpoints in order to facilitate frisking women and children.

The women soldiers are also helping in house-to-house searches during Cordon and Search Operation (CASO).

"Deployment of Riflewomen of Assam Rifles, is a reflection on the Security Forces, who always keep the sensitivities of the local population paramount &amp; this step, will definitely be of great help in mitigating any problems faced by the women in Kashmir, during operations," said Col Emron Musavi, PRO (Defence),&nbsp;Srinagar

The riflewomen can also help in bridging the gap between locals and army. And while the counterinsurgency operations are on, the female force can be of utmost importance.&nbsp;

<img alt="Jammu and Kashmir" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a0a34c74-f295-4ceb-863c-a056d2b77ae0" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Image%20%287%29.jpeg" />

"I am deployed here with Assam Rifles and our main task here is (to ensure) whenever there is an anti-militant operation is going on, women should not face any issues. They are more comfortable with us. So we make sure they don't face issues. Whenever there is an operation we have an important role to play,'' said riflewoman Jyotsna.&nbsp;

The women soldiers are also breaking the stereotype for women and taking on bigger and more challenging responsibilities. They also are trying to inspire other women in the valley to Join the forces.&nbsp;

"We are also trying to inspire women here so that they can also join the forces," said riflewoman Jyotsna.&nbsp;

The same group of women from the Assam Rifles were earlier posted in Kupwara District of North Kashmir to keep an eye on drug trafficking. It became easier for these female soldiers to search the women suspects in the areas close to Line of control.The presence of these female soldiers has helped the security forces to keep a tab on &nbsp;the smuggling of drugs from across the LoC.&nbsp;

The Indian Army has begun deploying women soldiers for conducting search operations in the Kashmir Valley. These women soldiers from Assam Rifles will be instrumental in maintaining peace in the valley.

The Indian Army has begun deploying women soldiers for conducting search operations in the Kashmir Valley. These women soldiers from Assam Rifles will be instrumental in maintaining peace in the valley. These soldiers have been deployed in areas like Ganderbal district in central Kashmir. They have been also deployed at motor-vehicle checkpoints in order to facilitate frisking women and children. The women soldiers are also helping in house-to-house searches during Cordon and Search Operation (CASO). "Deployment of Riflewomen of Assam Rifles, is a reflection on the Security Forces, who always keep the sensitivities of the local population paramount & this step, will definitely be of great help in mitigating any problems faced by the women in Kashmir, during operations," said Col Emron Musavi, PRO (Defence), Srinagar The riflewomen can also help in bridging the gap between locals and army. And while the counterinsurgency operations are on, the female force can be of utmost importance. "I am deployed here with Assam Rifles and our main task here is (to ensure) whenever there is an anti-militant operation is going on, women should not face any issues. They are more comfortable with us. So we make sure they don't face issues. Whenever there is an operation we have an important role to play,'' said riflewoman Jyotsna. The women soldiers are also breaking the stereotype for women and taking on bigger and more challenging responsibilities. They also are trying to inspire other women in the valley to Join the forces. "We are also trying to inspire women here so that they can also join the forces," said riflewoman Jyotsna. The same group of women from the Assam Rifles were earlier posted in Kupwara District of North Kashmir to keep an eye on drug trafficking. It became easier for these female soldiers to search the women suspects in the areas close to Line of control.The presence of these female soldiers has helped the security forces to keep a tab on the smuggling of drugs from across the LoC.

Assam riflewomen to help in counterinsurgency operations in Kashmir

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Tuesday highlighted the use of cyberspace by terrorists even as they raise funds, incite violence via the technology.

"We are witnessing a sophisticated use of cyberspace by terrorists around the world to broaden their appeal, spread virulent propaganda, incite hatred and violence, recruit youth and raise funds,"&nbsp;Harsh Shringla said at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) debate.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/who-approved-vaccines-can-be-on-national-list-for-travel-says-eu-envoy-394759" hreflang="en">WHO approved vaccines can be on national list for travel, says EU envoy</a>

He also pointed out that "terrorists have also used social media for planning and executing their terror attacks and wreaking havoc", and added that&nbsp;"as a victim of terrorism, India has always underlined the need for member states to address and tackle the implications of terrorist exploitation of the cyber domain more strategically."

In the past, India has raised this issue&nbsp;at various other forums too. The use of "cyber tools" by various entities including states was raised by the foreign secretary.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covishield-becomes-collateral-damage-in-the-inter-eu-tussle-over-chinese-vaccines-394744" hreflang="en">Covishield becomes collateral damage in the inter EU tussle over Chinese vaccines</a>

Without mentioning any name, FS Shringla said, "some states are leveraging their expertise in cyberspace to achieve their political and security-related objectives and indulge in contemporary forms of cross-border terrorism."&nbsp;

"The world is already witnessing the use of cyber tools to compromise state security through, inter alia, attacking critical national infrastructure, including health and energy facilities, even disrupting social harmony through radicalisation," he explained.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/50-bengaluru-residents-have-received-at-least-one-coronavirus-vaccine-shot-reveals-data-394772" hreflang="en">50% Bengaluru residents have received at least one coronavirus vaccine shot, reveals data</a>

During his address, he also listed the use of "transformative technology initiatives" such as Aadhar and UPI by India to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

Mentioning the use of the Co-WIN app, he said, "As part of its Covid vaccination drive, one of the largest such drives in the world, India has developed Co-WIN – a scalable, inclusive and open technological platform" and this "can be customised and scaled up for health interventions across the globe." India is working on sharing the platform with partner countries.

According to the chief of India's National Health Authority Dr RS Sharma, over 50 countries from across Central Asia, Latin America and Africa, are interested in the technology.

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Tuesday highlighted the use of cyberspace by terrorists even as they raise funds, incite violence via the technology.

India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla on Tuesday highlighted the use of cyberspace by terrorists even as they raise funds, incite violence via the technology. "We are witnessing a sophisticated use of cyberspace by terrorists around the world to broaden their appeal, spread virulent propaganda, incite hatred and violence, recruit youth and raise funds," Harsh Shringla said at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) debate. Also read | WHO approved vaccines can be on national list for travel, says EU envoy He also pointed out that "terrorists have also used social media for planning and executing their terror attacks and wreaking havoc", and added that "as a victim of terrorism, India has always underlined the need for member states to address and tackle the implications of terrorist exploitation of the cyber domain more strategically." In the past, India has raised this issue at various other forums too. The use of "cyber tools" by various entities including states was raised by the foreign secretary. Also read | Covishield becomes collateral damage in the inter EU tussle over Chinese vaccines Without mentioning any name, FS Shringla said, "some states are leveraging their expertise in cyberspace to achieve their political and security-related objectives and indulge in contemporary forms of cross-border terrorism." "The world is already witnessing the use of cyber tools to compromise state security through, inter alia, attacking critical national infrastructure, including health and energy facilities, even disrupting social harmony through radicalisation," he explained. Also read | 50% Bengaluru residents have received at least one coronavirus vaccine shot, reveals data During his address, he also listed the use of "transformative technology initiatives" such as Aadhar and UPI by India to implement the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Mentioning the use of the Co-WIN app, he said, "As part of its Covid vaccination drive, one of the largest such drives in the world, India has developed Co-WIN – a scalable, inclusive and open technological platform" and this "can be customised and scaled up for health interventions across the globe." India is working on sharing the platform with partner countries. According to the chief of India's National Health Authority Dr RS Sharma, over 50 countries from across Central Asia, Latin America and Africa, are interested in the technology.

Witnessing a sophisticated use of cyberspace by terrorists: Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla

A terrorist&nbsp;was killed in an encounter with security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, police said. 
 
Security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation in the Hanjipora area of Shopian district following information about the presence of terrorists there, a police official said. 
 
He said the search operation turned into an encounter after terrorists opened fire on the security forces personnel, drawing retaliation. 
 
In the ensuing gunfight, a militant was killed, the official said. He said the identity and group affiliation of the slain terrorists were yet to be ascertained. The operation was underway till last reports came in, the official added.

A terrorist was killed in an encounter with security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, police said. Security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation in the Hanjipora area of Shopian district following information about the presence of terrorists there, a police official said.

A terrorist was killed in an encounter with security forces in Shopian district of Jammu and Kashmir on Friday, police said. Security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation in the Hanjipora area of Shopian district following information about the presence of terrorists there, a police official said. He said the search operation turned into an encounter after terrorists opened fire on the security forces personnel, drawing retaliation. In the ensuing gunfight, a militant was killed, the official said. He said the identity and group affiliation of the slain terrorists were yet to be ascertained. The operation was underway till last reports came in, the official added.

Terrorist killed in encounter with security forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Shopian

Imran Khan & Shah Mehmood Qureshi have exposed the true face of Pakistan. The leaders believe: +Osama Bin Laden was a martyr. +Taliban shouldn't be blamed for violence in Afghanistan. +China's genocide against Muslims can be ignored. Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas: For the Pakistan government, Osama Bin Laden was a Martyr

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood&nbsp;Qureshi has once again raised eyebrows after failing&nbsp;to term al Qaeda&nbsp;founder Osama bin Laden as a terrorist. The comments come even as Financial Action Task Force (FATF) this week decides on Pakistan's continuance in&nbsp;its Grey List for not acting on the issue of terror financing.&nbsp;

In an interview with Lotfullah&nbsp;Najafizada of Afghan New Channel Tolo News, the minister was asked, "Is he a martyr? You disagree? Osama bin Laden?"

Qureshi said, "I will let that pass."&nbsp;

Before that, Najafizada&nbsp;recalled how the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had referred to Osama bin Laden as a&nbsp;'martyr', while speaking in the country's parliament.

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To this,&nbsp;Qureshi tried to make a case of misquoting, saying,&nbsp;"He was quoted out of context. And, a particular section of the media pair it up."&nbsp;

Bin Laden was killed by American forces in Pakistan's Abbottabad. The compound where he was staying was less than a mile away from the country's 70-year-old Pakistan Military Academy. Abbottabad in Northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is itself just&nbsp;two-hour drive from country's national capital,&nbsp;Islamabad.&nbsp;

In the 50-minute-long interview, Qureshi defended the Taliban as well, saying the group is ready for peace and&nbsp;"they have suffered as well’.

The Pakistani foreign minister explained, "if you try and create this impression that the violence is high because of Taliban...that would be an exaggeration."&nbsp;

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Pakistan has been in talks with the Taliban as part of the peace process, with its leadership being hosted by the country.&nbsp;Names of various sections of Taliban have been named after Pakistani cities like&nbsp;Quetta Shura,&nbsp;Peshawar&nbsp;Shura.&nbsp;

Asked,&nbsp;"One would also raise the issue of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish Mohammed, are they Pakistan-based terrorist groups", Qureshi said,&nbsp;"We are not supporting&nbsp;any&nbsp;terrorist group."&nbsp;

Najafizada&nbsp;then responded,&nbsp;"Maybe you don’t&nbsp;recognise&nbsp;them as terrorists."&nbsp;

The issue of cross-border terrorism from Pakistan has been raised both by Kabul and New Delhi internationally.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has once again raised eyebrows after failing to term al Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden as a terrorist. The comments come even as Financial Action Task Force (FATF) this week decides on Pakistan's continuance in its Grey List for not acting on the issue of terror financing.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has once again raised eyebrows after failing to term al Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden as a terrorist. The comments come even as Financial Action Task Force (FATF) this week decides on Pakistan's continuance in its Grey List for not acting on the issue of terror financing. In an interview with Lotfullah Najafizada of Afghan New Channel Tolo News, the minister was asked, "Is he a martyr? You disagree? Osama bin Laden?" Qureshi said, "I will let that pass." Before that, Najafizada recalled how the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had referred to Osama bin Laden as a 'martyr', while speaking in the country's parliament. Also Read | Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground To this, Qureshi tried to make a case of misquoting, saying, "He was quoted out of context. And, a particular section of the media pair it up." Bin Laden was killed by American forces in Pakistan's Abbottabad. The compound where he was staying was less than a mile away from the country's 70-year-old Pakistan Military Academy. Abbottabad in Northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is itself just two-hour drive from country's national capital, Islamabad. In the 50-minute-long interview, Qureshi defended the Taliban as well, saying the group is ready for peace and "they have suffered as well’. The Pakistani foreign minister explained, "if you try and create this impression that the violence is high because of Taliban...that would be an exaggeration." Also Read | 'Islamic system' only way to Afghan peace: Taliban Pakistan has been in talks with the Taliban as part of the peace process, with its leadership being hosted by the country. Names of various sections of Taliban have been named after Pakistani cities like Quetta Shura, Peshawar Shura. Asked, "One would also raise the issue of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish Mohammed, are they Pakistan-based terrorist groups", Qureshi said, "We are not supporting any terrorist group." Najafizada then responded, "Maybe you don’t recognise them as terrorists." The issue of cross-border terrorism from Pakistan has been raised both by Kabul and New Delhi internationally.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi hesitates to term Osama bin laden a terrorist 

Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi in an interview was confronted with Pakistan's duplicitous stand on Osama Bin Laden and his deaths at the hands of American forces in Afghanistan.

Martyr or Terrorist?: Pak FM Qureshi refrains from calling Osama bin Laden a terrorist

terrorist

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