In a significant security breakthrough, two hybrid militants affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) surrendered to the Shopian police during a cordon and search operation (CASO) in the Baskuchan area of Jammu and Kashmir. The individuals, identified as Irfan Bashir and Uzair Salam, were radicalised but not officially listed militants, making them part of the hybrid terrorist category.

The operation, launched late Wednesday night, successfully cornered the duo near an orchard, where their suspicious movements were detected. Thanks to the swift and strategic response of security forces, the two chose to surrender, averting a potentially deadly encounter.

Recovered from them were two AK-56 rifles, four magazines, 102 rounds, two hand grenades, and military pouches. An FIR has been registered, and a detailed investigation is underway to determine the extent of their involvement and identify any sleeper cells.