Srinagar, 08 Jun 2022. Based on specific information regarding presence of terrorist in the Apple Orchards of village Alura, Shopian District, a joint team of Indian Army and JKP was launched on 07 June 22 at about 2:30 PM. As soon as the joint team reached the suspected spot inside the dense Apple Orchard, the terrorist opened fire on the approaching security forces, triggering an encounter. The joint team immediately swung into action, extricating the civilians and labourers working inside the Orchard. Area was simultaneously cordoned to prevent terrorist from escaping. Heavy exchange of fire ensued between the terrorist and security forces as the hiding terrorist tried to break the cordon. One terrorist was neutralized during the firefight. A substantial cache of arms and ammunition including one 7.62 mm SLR, one AK rifle, grenades, an Improvised Explosive Device and other war like stores were recovered from the encounter site.
As per the JKP, the terrorist has been identified as Nadeem Ahmed Rather, resident of Ashmuji, Kulgam, was active in the area since March 2020 and a known associate of Farooq Ahmed Bhat @ Nalli, the District Commander of Hizbul Mujahideen. He was also involved in recent killings of civilians.