J&K: How cookies helped kill Lashkar-Taiba’s top terrorist during Srinagar operation – Defense News

In the recent anti-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir, security forces achieved a significant breakthrough by killing Usman, a senior commander of the Pakistan-based terrorist group Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT). This carefully executed mission, marked by innovative tactics, demonstrated not only the strategic understanding of Indian security forces, but also their adaptability – a quality that led to an unusual solution: the liver.

The operation, which took place in the densely populated Khanyar area of ​​Srinagar, began early Saturday morning and was the first major gunfight in the area in more than two years. Srinagar’s Khanyar district is known for its densely packed buildings and narrow alleys, making any military action difficult, especially due to the high risk of civilian casualties. In a day-long clash, Usman, a figure deeply rooted in the Valley’s militant landscape, was killed in the crossfire, dealing a blow to terrorist networks in the region.

Usman’s history as a terrorist leader dates back to the early 2000s. He had long been involved in organizing attacks throughout the valley, his knowledge gained from years of navigating the difficult terrain of Kashmir. After spending time in PakistanUsman reportedly returned to the region around 2016–2017 and quickly resumed his activities. He became known for his high-profile acts of violence, including the shooting of police inspector Masroor Wani last year, further adding to his infamy in the intelligence community. When intelligence sources tracked Usman to a residential area, security agencies were faced with the task of launching a precision strike.

Kashmir attack: Militants shoot at two UP residents in Budgam, security tightened

Delhi gears up for Diwali: Tightened security in THESE areas – here’s what you need to know

The Purushottam Express was stopped for over 3 hours at UP’s Tundla station due to a bomb threat that turned out to be a hoax

DK: Indian Army confiscates large cache of weapons and explosives in Poonch district

Smart plan with cookies

A critical aspect of the planning phase, which lasted a painstaking nine hours, was ensuring minimal intervention and eliminating the risk of collateral damage. In a residential area, noise control is critical; any sounds, such as dogs barking, could potentially alert the target, allowing it to escape or harm civilians. This time, the security forces took an unconventional decision: they supplied the search teams with bags of cookies to calm the stray dogs roaming the area.

Stray dogs are a common sight in Srinagar and can quickly disrupt covert operations by barking at unfamiliar activities. Armed with cookies, security personnel were able to approach Usman’s suspected hideout without attracting attention. The pre-dawn operation began shortly before Fajar (morning prayers), allowing forces to establish a cordon around a group of 30 houses in Khanyar with minimal disturbance.

Major defeat of militants in Srinagar

As the operation intensified, Usman reacted aggressively, using an AK-47, a pistol and a cache of grenades. A fierce firefight ensued, during which the militant used grenades in an attempt to resist arrest. Some of these grenades exploded, causing a fire in the house where Usman was hiding. Fortunately, security forces contained the fire before it spread, preventing further damage to nearby homes and ensuring the safety of civilians.

After several hours of intense firefight, Usman was finally neutralized, ending the standoff. Although four security personnel were injured during the clash, they were reported to be in stable condition, a testament to the effectiveness of the team’s tactical maneuvers and medical readiness.

The operation underscores the authorities’ resolve to fight terrorism, especially against the Resistance Front, an offshoot of LeT that has recently attacked non-local workers and security personnel. By eliminating a prominent figure like Usman, the security forces have dealt a major blow to the terrorist network, reiterating their commitment to restoring stability in Jammu and Kashmir.

Operation Khanyar serves as a powerful reminder of the daily challenges security personnel face in conflict zones. It also highlights their ingenuity – even the smallest and most unexpected details, such as cookies, can play a crucial role in ensuring the success of high-stakes missions. This tactical triumph not only eliminates a long-standing threat, but also strengthens the constant vigilance and adaptability necessary to maintain peace in the region.

(With agency participation)