Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Aug 13: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir, V K Birdi, on Wednesday said the ongoing hunt for terrorists in Kulgam district has entered its final stages, while full dress rehearsals and security drills for Independence Day have been successfully carried out across the valley.
Speaking to reporters at the Bakshi Stadium here after reviewing the rehearsals, IGP Birdi said that the search operation in the Akhal forest area of Kulgam — which began on August 1 — is in its final stage and the details will be shared accordingly, if necessary.
“The Akhal operation is in its final stage and further details will be shared in due course,” the Kashmir Police Chief added.
It is worth mentioning that the Akhal Kulgam operation has been one of the longest anti-terror operations in recent years, during which two army personnel were killed and ten soldiers were injured. A local terrorist was also neutralised.
On Independence Day preparations, the IGP said all contingents participated smoothly in rehearsals across districts. “In Srinagar, where the main event will take place, we have made multi-tier security arrangements with the police and Central Armed Police Forces. High-rise spotters are in place to ensure proper security coverage,” he said.
Birdi urged the public to participate in the August 15 celebrations in large numbers.
Regarding the recent infiltration attempt in Uri, the IGP said the matter is under investigation as part of an ongoing counter-insurgency operation.
