Poonch Terror Crackdown: J&K Police Raid Multiple Sites, Seize Electronic Devices

Jammu and Kashmir Police launched a major anti-terror operation in Poonch district, raiding nearly 18 locations to dismantle networks linked to proscribed groups like Jaish-e-Mohammad and Lashkar-e-Taiba. The operation, targeting overground workers (OGWs) and relatives of Pakistan-based terrorists, resulted in the seizure of several electronic devices, including mobile phones and laptops, believed to contain evidence of terror financing and recruitment. No arrests were made, but the raids mark a significant escalation in efforts to curb terrorism following the April 2025 Pahalgam attack.

Strategic Raids Across Poonch
The operation, led by senior officers, focused on villages like Surankote, Mendhar, and Gursai, known for their proximity to the Line of Control (LoC). Acting on specific intelligence, police teams searched homes of suspected OGWs, who provide logistical support to terrorists, including shelter and reconnaissance. The recovered electronic devices are under forensic analysis to uncover communication trails with handlers in Pakistan and PoK. The raids, conducted with minimal civilian disruption, reflect a meticulous approach to disrupting terror ecosystems without escalating local tensions.

Context of Heightened Security
The crackdown follows a surge in terror activities, notably the Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians, prompting India’s Operation Sindoor against terror hubs in Pakistan. Poonch, a frequent target due to its border location, saw heavy Pakistani shelling on 7 May, killing 12 civilians. The police action aims to sever local support networks, crucial for terrorist infiltration. Earlier operations in 2024 across Rajouri and Udhampur yielded arrests and arms, indicating a broader strategy to neutralize OGWs across Jammu.

Challenges and Implications
The absence of arrests suggests a focus on intelligence-gathering over immediate detentions, but it raises questions about the operation’s immediate impact. OGWs, often coerced or incentivized, are hard to track, and their familial ties to terrorists complicate legal action. The seized devices could reveal critical insights into cross-border operations, but decrypting them poses technical challenges. Public sentiment on X reflects cautious optimism, with some praising the police’s precision.

A Step Toward Stability
This operation underscores J&K Police’s proactive stance in dismantling terror infrastructure. By targeting OGWs, authorities aim to choke the logistical backbone of terrorism, a strategy vital for long-term peace. However, sustained efforts, including community engagement and border security enhancements, are essential to prevent resurgence. As investigations continue, the Poonch raids signal India’s resolve to combat terrorism amidst ongoing regional tensions.