Security forces have launched a massive counter-terror operation across the Kashmir Valley to track down and neutralise the terrorist suspected of involvement in the targeted killing of two migrant labourers in Kulgam district. Security has also been tightened across Jammu and Kashmir ahead of Independence Day functions.
The Jammu and Kashmir Police have announced a cash reward of Rs 15 lakh for credible information leading to the arrest of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist Mohammad Latif Bhat, who is suspected of being involved in the killing of Jammu and Kashmir Police Head Constable Ashiq Hussain in Anantnag’s Lal Chowk on July 22, 2026.
According to “wanted” posters issued by the Jammu and Kashmir Police and pasted across Kulgam, Anantnag and other districts, Bhat is a 22-year-old resident of Kulgam. The J&K Police and security forces have identified him as an LeT terrorist who has been active in South Kashmir for the past few months.
Bhat is the prime suspect in the killing of Head Constable Ashiq Hussain, who was shot dead in a crowded market area at Lal Chowk in Anantnag on July 22.
Kulgam Police and intelligence agencies also suspect Bhat of involvement in recent targeted killings aimed at spreading fear in the Valley, including the July 31 attack in Kulgam that claimed the lives of two migrant labourers from Chhattisgarh.
“Wanted” posters featuring Bhat’s photograph, reportedly captured from CCTV footage during the Anantnag market shooting, have been prominently displayed at several locations. The posters have been pasted across major areas of Srinagar, including the high-traffic Press Enclave and Lal Chowk.
Law enforcement agencies have urged the public to share any credible information about the suspect and assured informants that their identities would be kept strictly confidential.
As reported earlier, a search operation was launched immediately after terrorists opened fire on two brick-kiln workers from Chhattisgarh at Kelam village in Kulgam on the evening of July 31. The victims, identified as Deepak Ratre, 24, and Bhupendra, 28, were reportedly shot after being asked about their identities. Deepak died on the spot, while Bhupendra succumbed to his injuries at SKIMS Srinagar on August 1.
Security agencies suspect that the attack was carried out by local LeT terrorist Mohammad Latif Bhat, a resident of Nai Basti, Khrevan Chaddar, in Kulgam district. According to security sources, the same terrorist is also suspected of involvement in the killing of Head Constable Ashiq Hussain at Lal Chowk in Anantnag on July 22. However, officials are yet to formally confirm his role in either incident.
A multi-layered search operation involving the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, Army special forces and other security agencies is underway in Kulgam and adjoining areas. Sniffer dogs and technical surveillance are being used, while additional troops have been deployed to seal possible escape routes.
Security forces have established multiple checkpoints, intensified vehicle checking and increased surveillance across South Kashmir and other sensitive locations, including Srinagar and the National Highway, to prevent the suspected terrorist from escaping.
Senior police and security officials, including Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, visited the attack site to review the operational strategy and assess the overall security situation. Several suspected overground workers (OGWs) have also been detained for questioning as part of the investigation, according to security sources.
Sources said Latif, aged around 22, allegedly joined the terror ranks after going missing from his home on November 19 last year. His family had reportedly filed a missing-person report at the time.
The attack has triggered a fresh security review at the highest level. Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha convened a high-level meeting with senior security officials and directed the police and security forces to launch precise and effective counter-terror operations against those responsible for the killings.
The Lieutenant Governor also instructed all Deputy Commissioners and Senior Superintendents of Police to review and strengthen the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for the safety and security of migrant labourers across the Union Territory. The meeting also reviewed security arrangements for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah condemned the attack and announced an ex gratia payment of Rs 10 lakh each from the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund for the families of the two deceased labourers. The district administration also provided immediate financial assistance of Rs 6 lakh to each bereaved family.
The targeted killing of the migrant workers is the second major terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir within ten days and has prompted security agencies to intensify counter-terror operations across the Valley.