In a significant counter-terrorism breakthrough, Indian security forces avenged the deadly Pahalgam attack by eliminating the mastermind, Suleiman Shah, alias Hashim Musa, in a high-stakes operation named Operation Mahadev. The meticulously planned mission culminated today in an intense encounter near Srinagar, resulting in the death of three high-value terrorists.
Suleiman Shah, a senior Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative and former commando of Pakistan’s elite Special Service Group (SSG), had infiltrated India in September 2023. Known for his expertise in jungle warfare and encrypted communications, he was a key asset to UN-designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed’s network. Shah had masterminded several attacks, including the April 22 massacre in Pahalgam where 26 civilians were brutally shot dead in the Baisaran valley.
Security forces launched Operation Mahadev, named after the towering Mahadev Peak near Dachigam, following a series of electronic and physical surveillance measures. In early July, intelligence detected suspicious Chinese ultra radio signals — a mode of encrypted communication used by LeT — in the forested foothills of the Mahadev range. After narrowing down the location to the Mulnar area of Harwan, a multi-agency team comprising the Indian Army, CRPF, and J&K Police executed the strike.
The terrorists, all foreign nationals, were well-trained and had fortified themselves in the high-altitude terrain. Among the slain were Jibran, allegedly involved in the Sonamarg Tunnel attack in October 2024, and Hamza Afghani, another key LeT member. Arms recovered from the site included one M4 carbine rifle and two AK series rifles.
Suleiman’s death marks a crucial milestone in the fight against cross-border terrorism. Officials confirmed that he was responsible for at least six major terror attacks since his infiltration. The Jammu and Kashmir Police had earlier announced a ₹20 lakh reward for credible leads on his whereabouts.
According to officials, Operation Mahadev lasted over 14 days and involved both strategic intelligence gathering and tactical execution. Inspector General of Police (Kashmir Zone), VK Birdi, hailed it as a “long-drawn and meticulously executed” success. The bodies of the deceased terrorists have been handed over to local authorities for identification and legal formalities.
As reinforcements continue combing the area amid intelligence of possible remaining militants, the successful conclusion of Operation Mahadev sends a strong message to terror outfits operating from across the border. The elimination of Suleiman Shah is being seen as a major morale booster for the forces and a decisive step in maintaining peace in the region.
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