TRF had initially claimed responsibility for the Pahalgam attack on April 22 that killed 25 tourists and a local, but later disowned the claim saying that its social media handles were hacked.
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The three terrorists killed in the operation were Shahid Kuttay, Adnan and Amir, all residents of Shopian district. However, police is yet to officially confirm their identities.
“On 13 May, 2025, based on intelligence of a Rashtriya Rifles Unit, on the presence of terrorists in Shoekal of Keller in Shopian, the Indian Army launched a search and destroy operation. Terrorists opened heavy fire and a fierce firefight ensued, which resulted in the elimination of three hardcore terrorists. The operation is in progress,” the Army said in an official statement.
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Officials said that Kuttay, a resident of Sedow, had joined the terror ranks in March 2023 and was involved in several terror incidents. He was allegedly involved in an attack on two foreign tourists and their local driver in a firing incident in 2024.
Officials said that they have recovered a large quantity of arms and ammunition, including two AK-47 rifles, hand grenades and magazines, from their possession.
J&K Police has pasted posters in various parts of Shopian announcing a reward of ₹20 lakh for anyone providing information on those involved in the Pahalgam attack. They have maintained that the identity of the informant will be kept confidential.
