SF launch search, destroy operation in Bandipora woods

Srinagar, Jul 11: Security forces launched a massive Search and Destroy (S&D) operation in the woods in the north Kashmir district of Bandipora, official sources said on Wednesday.

Troops of different security agencies launched a joint S&D operation in the vast dense forest of Bandipora following a tip-off about the presence of militants and their hideouts. The operation was started in Kotosatri forest.

Based on intelligence reports about the presence of militants in the forest and their hideouts used during snowfall, the operation was launched to destroy the hideouts. Similar operation was launched last year also during which several underground hideouts were smashed.

The operation will continue from different directions till the entire forest is covered. However, so far no hideout was found, the sources said.