Operation Mahadev: Pahalgam Attack Mastermind Suleiman Shah Killed in Major Encounter
Three militants, including mastermind, shot dead
Operation Mahadev: Major Militant Encounter in Pahalgam
Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir carried out a carefully planned operation in Pahalgam on Thursday morning. Acting on reliable intelligence, Army, CRPF, and J&K Police units cordoned off a dense forest area where militants were suspected to be hiding. As the forces approached, a heavy exchange of gunfire broke out. By the end of the Operation Mahadev, three militants, including notorious commander Suleiman Shah, were killed. “The elimination of Shah is a huge blow to terror networks in South Kashmir,” a senior police officer stated.
Who Was Suleiman Shah?
Shah had been on the radar for several months because of his role in planning high-profile attacks. Officials described him as a key recruiter who managed to bring several vulnerable youths into terror ranks. Moreover, He was also linked to cross-border networks operating from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, security sources said. The two other militants killed alongside him were reportedly foreign fighters who crossed the border recently. Troops recovered advanced rifles, grenades, and encrypted satellite phones from the encounter site. “These recoveries clearly show they were plotting further violence in the coming days,” an officer revealed.
Details of Operation Mahadev
The operation, called Operation Mahadev, lasted several hours and was conducted in difficult terrain. Forces quickly sealed off potential escape routes and also ensured nearby villagers were evacuated. This careful planning avoided civilian casualties, which officials called a top priority. “The terrain was challenging, but we maintained complete coordination between the forces,” an Army official shared. Security personnel thoroughly searched the area after the encounter ended to rule out any additional threats. Authorities believe Shah’s death significantly weakens militant networks still active in the region.
Intelligence Gains and Next Steps
Intelligence teams are now analyzing the recovered phones and documents to uncover links with handlers across the border. Sources confirmed that several sleeper cells may be exposed as a result of this breakthrough. “We are tracking every lead and will continue targeted operations,” Additional DGP Vijay Kumar told reporters in Srinagar. This development, he added, would also prevent future recruitment drives in vulnerable areas. Security forces have already stepped-up operations in other sensitive regions.
Public Response and Security Outlook
Residents in Pahalgam expressed relief after the encounter, hoping it would lead to improved security. Meanwhile, forces have intensified operations in other parts of South Kashmir to stop fresh infiltration attempts. Officials reiterated that Operation Mahadev highlights the increased efficiency and coordination of security agencies. “We remain committed to eliminating terrorism entirely,” Kumar said. Search teams are still active in the region to ensure no militant presence remains. Authorities believe this success will discourage future militant activity across the valley.
