Jammu, March 18 (NationPress) Following the recent removal of the top commander of the Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror organization, Saifullah, last month, police in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district have initiated an extensive crackdown on the local network and support structure for terrorism.

According to official sources, the J&K Police and security forces are working in complete harmony to identify the network of overground workers (OGWs) that have been operational for several years.

It has been reported that two government employees are among more than half a dozen members of the OGW group that has been providing food, shelter, and logistical assistance to terrorists in the region.

Many of these OGWs have previously organized meals for JeM terrorists. With the assistance of forensic experts, security forces are examining images of terrorists with civilian identities.

Officials have indicated that while many individuals provided help to terrorists under coercion, there are some who did so willingly.

Those identified as OGWs are expected to face stringent legal repercussions, including charges under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). Some individuals may also be detained under the Public Safety Act (PSA).

This crackdown follows a series of successful counter-terror operations in the area, with the Indian Army’s White Knight Corps recently reporting the elimination of seven Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists in Kishtwar over the past 326 days. In just the last 20 days, six terrorists have been neutralized, highlighting the intensified operations in the Jammu region.

Major General A.P.S. Bal, General Officer Commanding of the Counter-Insurgency Force (CIF) Delta, emphasized the importance of this operation, stating: “We will continue to neutralize terrorists who enter our area… In February, we managed to eliminate six JeM terrorists… one in Udhampur and the other in Kishtwar.”

Commenting on the removal of Saifullah and his faction, he stated: “The elimination of the Saifullah group is a significant achievement as they were central to the entire terror network. The removal of seven terrorists marks a substantial victory for all of us.”

Authorities are optimistic that the ongoing investigations may reveal a broader support system connected to Pakistan-backed terror organizations operating in the area, as efforts are made to dismantle the entire ecosystem supporting militancy in Kishtwar.

The J&K Police and security forces are vigorously conducting anti-terrorism operations in the region.