Bandipora, Sep 26 (KNS): Two militants of Lashkar-e-Toibe outfit, who were involved in the killing of BJP leader Wasim Bari, his father and son, were killed in an encounter that broke out in Watrina locality of North Kashmir’s Bandipora district on Sunday morning, police said.

In a statement, issued to Kashmir News Service (KNS) Bandipora police received an input on the evening of 25th September about the presence of militants in the general area of Watrina Bandipora. 

“The input was developed further technically and humanly, a CASO was laid by police, 14 RR and CRPF and contact was established with the two hiding militants on the morning of 26th September during search. Operation was stopped and frequent appeal was made to surrender but both hiding militants refused to surrender. Later on, encounter resumed and two militants of LeT outfit neutralised who were identified as Abid Rashid Dar alias Haqani and Azad Ahmed Shah,” reads the statement.

It reads that Abid Rashid Dar was a Pakistan Trained militant who had crossed over the Wagah Border in April 2018 and had infiltrated back in 2019. “He was involved in local militant actions and had been tasked with recruitment and running the ranks of Lashkar in North Kashmir.”

The statement reads that Abid Rashid Dar, Azad Ahmed Shah, Foreign militant Usman and Sajad alias Haider were involved in the killing of BJP leader Waseem Bari and his family. “The FT Usman and Sajad alias Haider were eliminated in Kreeri on 17/09/2021.” 

It reads that the remaining militants involved in the killing were eliminated today. “With this the investigation of case FIR No 74/2019 of PS Bandipora stands closed. However, both militants were charge sheeted in that case earlier.”

The statement reads that 02 AK 47 rifles 01 pistol and other incriminating material seized, while FIR has been lodged and investigation has been started.

Meanwhile, IGP Kashmir appreciated role of police and security forces for conducting successful operation without any collateral damage. (KNS)