The Indian Army on Wednesday announced the elimination of a Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist in an encounter that took place in the upper reaches of Central Kashmir. The operation, which began late Tuesday night with a joint search operation in Korag, Yousmarg, culminated with the recovery of the terrorist’s body and war-like stores on Wednesday morning. The deceased militant has been identified as Mohammad Asif, also known by the alias Hashim Moosa.
Sources indicate to Tahir Rihat that Moosa was a key associate of Yasir, another terrorist who was killed in a previous operation in the same forest area. Both individuals were reportedly part of a militant group responsible for a series of attacks in the Jammu region. These attacks included a significant ambush at Dera Ki Gali in Poonch, which resulted in the deaths of four soldiers, and an assault on an Air Force convoy. The elimination of Asif marks the dismantling of this particular militant group, with sources confirming that he served as the commander of the group.
The security forces have been actively pursuing this group, which had been linked to several high-profile incidents. Yasir and Moosa were identified as close associates of Sulaiman Shah, a senior LeT commander who was neutralized along with two other terrorists in an operation in the forests on the outskirts of Srinagar in July 2025. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had subsequently informed the Lok Sabha that the three militants killed in that operation were directly involved in the Pahalgam attack, an incident that claimed the lives of 25 tourists and one local resident. The photograph of the four members of this group had previously been widely circulated on social media, underscoring their significance to the LeT’s operations in the region.
The security forces’ sustained counter-terrorism efforts have systematically targeted and eliminated the members of this group. Apart from Sulaiman Shah, Yasir, and Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Moosa, the fourth member of the group was identified as Junaid Ahmed Bhat. Bhat was killed in a separate security operation in the Harwan area on the outskirts of Srinagar in December 2024. The group’s alleged involvement in multiple attacks highlights the persistent threat posed by Pakistan-based militant outfits operating in Jammu and Kashmir. Investigations have linked Shah and Junaid to the Ganderbal tunnel attack in October 2024. Concurrently, Yasir and Moosa were suspected of carrying out the Butapathri attack near Gulmarg in the same year, an incident that resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and two civilian porters.
The successful neutralization of Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Moosa is considered a significant blow to the LeT’s operational capabilities in the region. The Army’s statement emphasized the vigilant actions of the troops who observed suspicious activity and responded effectively when challenged by the terrorists. The ensuing exchange of gunfire was described as fierce, leading to the death of one terrorist. The operation was in progress at the time of the initial announcement, with a comprehensive search of the area yielding the body of the slain militant and incriminating material. The recovery of war-like stores further corroborates the militant’s active involvement in armed activities.
The relentless pursuit and elimination of such militant commanders and their associates are crucial for maintaining peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir. The coordinated efforts between different security agencies, including the Army and local police, have been instrumental in thwarting numerous terror plots and neutralizing active militants. The intelligence-led operations, often conducted in challenging terrains, demonstrate the commitment of the security forces to eradicating terrorism from the region. The focus remains on dismantling the entire network of militant organizations, disrupting their supply lines, and preventing any further loss of life.
The Pakistan-based LeT has been a prominent militant group active in the Kashmir Valley, often accused of orchestrating attacks against security forces and civilians. Its leadership, based across the border, continues to attempt infiltration and radicalization efforts. However, the increased effectiveness of counter-terrorism operations within Jammu and Kashmir, coupled with enhanced intelligence gathering, has put significant pressure on these groups. The elimination of key figures like Mohammad Asif alias Hashim Moosa and his associates represents a strategic success for the security apparatus. The ongoing efforts aim to ensure that no terrorist group can destabilize the region or undermine the democratic process. The authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and remain prepared to respond to any emerging threats.
Tahir Rihat (also known as Tahir Bilal) is an independent journalist, activist, and digital media professional from the Chenab Valley of Jammu and Kashmir, India. He is best known for his work as the Online Editor at The Chenab Times.
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