Longest-Serving Hizbul Mujahideen Commander Farooq Nali Neutralized in Kulgam Encounter

Kulgam, December 19, 2024: In a major success for security forces, top Hizbul Mujahideen commander Farooq Ahmad Bhat, alias Farooq Nali, was neutralized during an encounter in Kulgam district of South Kashmir today. Farooq Nali, one of the longest-surviving militants in the region, had been actively involved in militancy for over two decades.

The encounter unfolded after a joint team of the Indian Army, Jammu & Kashmir Police, and CRPF launched a cordon-and-search operation based on credible intelligence inputs about the presence of militants in the area. Upon establishing contact, Farooq Nali opened fire, leading to a gunfight in which he was neutralized.

Farooq Nali was a top-ranking commander of Hizbul Mujahideen, infamous for orchestrating several attacks and recruiting youth into militant ranks. His elimination marks a significant blow to the outfit’s operational capabilities in the region.

Authorities have confirmed that the operation was conducted with precision to avoid collateral damage, ensuring the safety of civilians in the vicinity. A cache of arms and ammunition was recovered from the encounter site.

Security agencies lauded the local population for their cooperation and reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace and security in the region.

Further investigations are underway.