Sopore, Oct 10 (KNS) : A large cache of arms, ammunition and explosive material, including two assault rifles, four pistols and three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), was recovered from a forest area in north Kashmir's Sopore, police said on Saturday. The seizure, described by police as a "significant achievement" in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, also included 11 hand grenades and a Multi Grenade Launcher (MGL).

According to police, the recovery was made during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) launched in the forest area of Mukaam Cherhar, under the jurisdiction of Police Station Bomai, based on specific intelligence inputs generated by Sopore Police.

During the search, a blue barrel and a bag were found concealed beneath a large boulder. The Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) was immediately called to the spot for examination and safe handling of the suspected explosive material.

The recovered material included two assault rifles — one AK-47 and one AK-76 — along with seven magazines and ammunition; four pistols with four magazines and ammunition; one MGL with five rounds; and 11 hand grenades.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel

Three IEDs with remote controls, eight detonators and two timers were also seized, along with other material including a Y-SMS set, prima cords, wires, battery cells, IED-related components and miscellaneous accessories.

The material was taken into possession in accordance with due legal procedure, with necessary safety precautions, police said.

An FIR — No. 66/2026 — has been registered at Police Station Bomai under Sections 13, 18, 20 and 23 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, Section 7/25 of the Arms Act and Section 5 of the Explosive Substances Act.

Police said further investigation is underway to establish the source and ownership of the recovered material, identify those involved in its concealment and ascertain possible terrorist linkages. The probe will also focus on the circumstances surrounding the concealment of the material and identifying all persons involved, they added. (KNS)