Kulgam Security Attack Triggers Massive Manhunt for Active Terrorist Latif Ahmad Bhat as 500 Suspects Questioned Following a terror attack on a paramilitary post in South Kashmir's Kulgam, security forces detained over 500 individuals while mounting an intensive search for Latif Ahmad Bhat, the valley's sole active local militant. Following a terrorist attack on Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel near Akhran in South Kashmir's Kulgam district, security forces have launched an extensive anti-terror operation across the region. Over the past three days, police and security agencies have detained more than 500 individuals, predominantly young men, for questioning across various locations in South Kashmir. Security agencies have refocused their investigation on 22-year-old Latif Ahmad Bhat, currently identified as the Kashmir valley's only remaining active local terrorist. Investigators are probing whether Bhat collaborated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) cadres operating in the region or established a new localized module. Paramilitary Post Targeted in Akhran The incident occurred on Wednesday when terrorists opened fire on a security checkpoint near Akhran in Kulgam, injuring three paramilitary personnel. Notably, the attack coincided with an official visit by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, who was present in the district to inaugurate the 'Vesho Utsav'. Following the gunfire, security forces cordoned off the entire perimeter and launched widespread search operations. Mass Interrogations and Detentions Across Kulgam In the aftermath of the attack, security personnel rounded up more than 500 individuals across South Kashmir, particularly from Kulgam district. A police official indicated that a majority of those picked up had prior records with security agencies for supporting militant activities. Interrogations centered specifically on gathering leads related to the November 11 attack. While the majority of those detained have been released following preliminary questioning, several key suspects remain in police custody for detailed interrogation. Who Is Latif Ahmad Bhat? Latif Ahmad Bhat, a resident of Khrewan Chaddar in Kulgam, holds the distinction of being the sole active local militant tracked by security forces in the valley. Police suspect his direct involvement in planning or executing the attack. Investigators are attempting to determine if Bhat linked up with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) groups hiding in the higher reaches of the Pir Panjal range—the mountain system connecting South Kashmir to the Jammu division—or recruited fresh local youth into his fold. Seasonal Downhill Movement of Militants A senior police officer explained that harsh winter conditions and heavy snowfall in the high mountain altitudes typically force hiding militants to descend into populated lowland valleys during this period. Security agencies consider it plausible that mountain-based militants joined forces with Bhat, though they have not ruled out the possibility that Bhat independently recruited new operatives to carry out fresh attacks. Escape from the Shopian Encounter Bhat initially emerged on security radars after escaping a joint military-police encirclement in Shopian district. Security cameras had previously captured Bhat alongside associate Zakir Ganai. When joint forces encircled a village in Shopian, Bhat managed to break through the cordon and flee. However, Ganai—who originally drew Bhat into militant ranks—was killed in that encounter. Pattern of Prior Attacks Attributed to Bhat Police records link Bhat to several recent violent incidents in South Kashmir • July 21: A constable belonging to the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police was shot dead at close range in Anantnag city. CCTV footage captured an armed assailant shooting the officer, whom police identified as Bhat. • July 30: Nine days after the Anantnag shooting, two brick kiln workers were murdered in Killam village within Kulgam district. Police held Bhat responsible for the killings. • August 7: Authorities published wanted posters across South Kashmir offering a financial reward for information leading to Bhat's location or capture. Intensified Surveillance Across South Kashmir With Bhat identified as the last remaining active local militant in the valley, joint security teams have intensified Cordon and Search Operations (CASO) across Kulgam and adjoining districts. Security personnel have also increased surprise vehicle checks and established mobile checkpoints along major transit routes throughout South Kashmir to track down the fugitive. What this means for you The terror attack on paramilitary personnel in Kulgam has immediate safety and operational consequences for residents in South Kashmir and security protocols across India. • Across India: Security forces nationwide and along state borders have heightened their vigilance against potential spillover threats. Travelers and tourists visiting Jammu and Kashmir are advised to follow official safety advisories and account for increased security checks. • In Kulgam and South Kashmir: Local residents will experience daily travel delays due to intensified surprise vehicle checkpoints and joint search operations. Authorities advise citizens to carry valid identification documents at all times and promptly report suspicious movements to local police. Why this happened The terror attack on the security post in Kulgam was driven by seasonal tactical movements and the remaining militant network in South Kashmir. Security agencies have identified several key factors behind the incident. • Seasonal Downhill Migration: Severe winter conditions and heavy snowfall in the higher altitudes of the Pir Panjal range force militants hiding in the mountains to move down toward populated lowland areas. • Lone Active Local Terrorist: Latif Ahmad Bhat, the valley's sole remaining active local militant, has been attempting to rebuild operational capacity by forming new local modules or linking up with foreign Lashkar-e-Taiba cadres. • Targeting Security Infrastructure: The attack on the Akhran security post was executed during high-profile VIP movement in the district to demonstrate operational presence and disrupt local stability. Questions & Answers 1. Where and when did the terror attack in Kulgam occur? The attack took place on Wednesday near Akhran in Kulgam district, South Kashmir, targeting a paramilitary security post and injuring three personnel. 2. Who is the primary suspect targeted in the manhunt? Security agencies are pursuing 22-year-old Latif Ahmad Bhat, identified as the sole remaining active local terrorist operating in the Kashmir valley. 3. How many suspects were detained during security sweeps? Over 500 youth were taken into custody across South Kashmir for questioning, with most being released after initial interrogation. 4. What previous attacks has Latif Ahmad Bhat been linked to? Bhat is blamed for the July 21 point-blank killing of an SOG constable in Anantnag and the July 30 murder of two brick kiln workers in Kulgam. https://trendkia.com/en/jammu-kashmir/kulgam-men-crpf-javanon-para-hamale-ke-bada-ghati-ke-akele-sakriya-atnki-latif-ahmad-bhat-ki-talasha-teja-500-se-jyada-hirasata-me-59976 TrendKia — Har trend, sabse pehle.