Security forces conduct searches at 26 locations in Sopore

Security forces and the Jammu and Kashmir Police launched a massive crackdown on Sunday, conducting simultaneous searches at 26 locations in Sopore and surrounding areas of the Baramulla district.

The operations are part of an investigation into a suspected network linked to the banned organization Jamaat-e-Islami (JeI). The searches are being conducted under the provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to gather evidence and establish the nature of the alleged network's activities.

The JeI was declared an unlawful association by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs due to alleged separatist and terrorist links. The ban on the organization was extended for five years in February 2024. Security arrangements have been strengthened in the targeted areas to ensure the operations proceed without disruption to law and order.