Jammu and Kashmir: Security Forces Recover Unidentified Body, Arms Near Shopian Encounter Site

Security forces on Wednesday recovered an unidentified body near the site of an ongoing anti-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Shopian district, where fresh gunfire was reported during search operations.

According to police, the body was found in the Chanapora area of South Kashmir's Shopian district, close to the encounter site. Security personnel intensified searches after hearing fresh gunshots during the operation.

Officials said the identity of the deceased is yet to be established. Arms and ammunition were also spotted near the body, though police said the area is still being thoroughly searched as part of the ongoing operation.

The joint operation by the Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police began five days ago after specific intelligence inputs suggested the presence of terrorists in the area.

Security agencies believe two local Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists, identified as Latif and Zakir, remain trapped inside the cordoned area. The gunfight began last Saturday after the two allegedly opened fire on approaching Army personnel.

The Army's Victor Force has deployed additional troops to block possible escape routes through the dense apple orchards. Search operations have also been supported with lighting equipment to counter poor visibility caused by heavy summer foliage, which officials say provides natural cover to militants.

According to security records, both Latif and Zakir are residents of Kulgam district. Zakir is believed to have joined the LeT in 2024, while Latif reportedly became associated with the outfit last year.

Shopian has remained one of South Kashmir's most sensitive militancy-affected districts due to its dense orchards, difficult terrain and strategic location linking South Kashmir with Central Kashmir and the Pir Panjal region.

Earlier this month, security forces killed Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist Kamran Bhai and LeT operative Bilal Ahmed Bhat in separate encounters in Shopian. Bilal was accused of involvement in multiple killings, including attacks on Army personnel, migrant workers and a Kashmiri Pandit.

In May 2025, three The Resistance Front (TRF) terrorists, including commander Shahid Kuttay, were also killed in the district.

Intelligence agencies believe neutralising local militants in Shopian remains crucial to disrupting terror logistics networks and curbing local recruitment. The operation in the area is continuing.