Security forces neutralize three terrorists—including the alleged mastermind of the Pahalgam massacre—during Operation Mahadev near Srinagar.
Srinagar, July 28, 2025:
In a decisive victory for Indian security forces, three terrorists—including Suleiman Shah (aka Hashim Musa), identified as the mastermind behind the April Pahalgam terror attack—were killed in a joint operation near Dachigam National Park, on the outskirts of Srinagar. The operation, codenamed Operation Mahadev, was conducted by the Army, CRPF, and Jammu & Kashmir Police.
Suleiman, reportedly a Pakistani national and ex-serviceman in the Pakistan Army, had been on India’s wanted list with a reward of ₹20 lakh for his capture. He was accused of orchestrating the brutal attack in Baisaran Valley on April 22, 2025, where gunmen opened fire on tourists, killing 26 and injuring dozens more.
Security sources confirmed that two other terrorists—identified as Abu Hamza and Yasir—were also neutralized in the intense firefight that broke out around 11:00 AM. All three were believed to be involved in the Pahalgam attack, with their identities under final verification.
Following the operation, the Army’s Chinar Corps posted on X: “Three terrorists have been neutralised in an intense firefight. Operation continues.” This marks a crucial breakthrough in India’s counterterrorism effort targeting TRF.
The April Pahalgam attack, carried out in camouflage uniforms and involving sophisticated planning, had significantly escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, prompting diplomatic fallout and intensified security measures across the region. Over the following weeks, Indian forces launched multiple operations to dismantle terror networks and tighten security around tourist hubs and pilgrimage routes.