Poonch, May 5, 2025 — In a significant breakthrough in counter-terror operations, the Indian Army on Monday uncovered a terror hideout in the dense forests of Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district. The operation led to the recovery of multiple Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), wireless communication sets, and other war-like stores, averting potential attacks and reaffirming the Army’s vigilance along the sensitive Line of Control (LoC).
The operation was launched based on specific intelligence inputs indicating the presence of a cache used by terrorist operatives in the higher reaches of the Poonch sector, which has witnessed a spike in infiltration attempts over the past few months.
Precision Operation Foils Major Threat
According to Army officials, the operation was carried out by a joint team of Rashtriya Rifles and local police late Sunday night and continued into the early hours of Monday. “Our troops launched a well-coordinated search operation in the forested area near the village of Noorkote. The terrain was challenging, but based on credible intelligence, we were able to identify and neutralize a concealed hideout used by terrorists,” said Lt Col Suneet Singh, PRO (Defence) Jammu.
The security forces recovered a large quantity of arms and explosives, including two IEDs weighing approximately 5 kg each, a set of wireless communication devices, batteries, detonators, and other bomb-making material. Officials believe the hideout could have been used by recently infiltrated groups planning attacks ahead of the upcoming election cycle in Jammu and Kashmir.
Rising Threats Amid Political Activity
This development comes amid heightened security arrangements in the Union Territory, where local elections are scheduled to be held later this year. Intelligence agencies have already warned of possible attempts by Pakistan-based terror groups to disrupt democratic processes in the region.
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, infiltration attempts along the LoC have increased by nearly 28% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year. “The recovery of IEDs highlights the continuing threat posed by non-state actors backed by Pakistan. The aim is clear — to instill fear and derail peace efforts in the region,” said a senior official from the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Tech-Savvy Tactics and Communication Networks
Experts noted the increasing reliance on wireless sets and encrypted communication tools by terror groups operating in J&K. The seizure of wireless sets points to an evolving strategy by militants to coordinate movements and avoid digital surveillance.
“Unlike earlier times when mobile SIMs were more traceable, terrorists have moved to radio communication and offline methods, making it harder for agencies to track real-time conversations,” said Brig (Retd) A.K. Mehta, a counter-insurgency analyst.
Bolstering Security and Civilian Safety
In light of the recent bust, security in the Poonch-Rajouri sector has been intensified, with routine search operations and patrolling being conducted in vulnerable areas. Civilian cooperation has also been lauded, as locals have become increasingly proactive in reporting suspicious movements.
The Army has reiterated its commitment to securing the region and ensuring that no militant group is allowed to destabilize peace. “This operation is a testament to our unwavering focus on keeping our borders safe. Every such seizure brings us a step closer to a terror-free Jammu and Kashmir,” said Lt Col Singh.
Conclusion
As the region prepares for a politically and socially sensitive year, such successful operations send a strong message to terror outfits operating across the border. The vigilant actions of the Indian security forces continue to serve as a vital pillar in upholding peace and thwarting extremist threats in Jammu and Kashmir.
