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J&K govt school teacher among two terror operatives held in Kishtwar
Police arrested two terror operatives in Kishtwar, including a government school teacher, for aiding Jaish-e-Mohammad commander Saifullah Balochi and two other Pakistani terrorists. The arrests follow January 19 hideout discovery and a February 22 gunfight in which the militants were killed.
Why It Matters
The case highlights ongoing support networks for foreign terrorist groups in Jammu and Kashmir and the authorities' efforts to disrupt logistical backing to insurgent operations.
Timeline
3 Events
May 13, 2026 – Arrest of two operatives including a government teacher
May 13, 2026
J&K Police arrested Mashkoor Ahmed, a government teacher from Beighpora in Singhpora, and Maneer Ahmed of Bandeyan Naidgam for providing logistical support, food, and shelter to Saifullah Balochi and two other Pakistani terrorists in the Chatroo area. A case has been registered under BNS, UAPA, and the Arms Act. Mashkoor Ahmed’s house was linked to a social-media post showing Balochi garlanded with currency notes. Mashkoor Ahmed was appointed Rehbar-e-Taleem (ReT) in 2004 and regularised in 2009; authorities indicated his service may be terminated by the government. Maneer Ahmed was earlier arrested for similar offences.
February 22, 2026 – Gunfight ends with militants killed
February 22, 2026
In an intense gunfight with security forces in the Chatroo area, Jaish-e-Mohammad commander Saifullah Balochi and two other Pakistani terrorists were killed.
January 19, 2026 – Jungle hideout discovery in Singhpora, Chatroo
January 19, 2026
Authorities discovered a camouflaged jungle hideout in Singhpora, Chatroo, stocked with four months’ worth of ration, blankets, and cooking equipment, underscoring the depth of logistical support for insurgents in the area.