A Pakistani Lashkar-e-Taiba commander identified as Yasir was killed during an encounter with joint security forces in central Kashmir’s Budgam district on Saturday. Security forces launched an intelligence-based search operation in the upper reaches of Yousmarg after receiving information about the presence of terrorists. Special Forces and 53 Rashtriya Rifles jointly carried out the operation. The search team encountered terrorists in the area, triggering an exchange of fire. During the gunfight, security personnel killed Yasir. Forces continued searches in the surrounding areas to check for any other militants and possible hideouts.
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Security Forces Kill Lashkar Commander Yasir in Yousmarg Encounter Gunfight
According to sources, Yasir had earlier operated as part of the larger Sulaiman Musa group of Lashkar-e-Taiba. However, he reportedly separated from the group nearly a year ago and started operating independently. Security agencies had been tracking his movements and monitoring his activities around Yousmarg. His presence in the higher reaches of the area prompted security forces to launch the intelligence-based operation. Investigators are now examining Yasir’s activities and his possible connections with other Lashkar operatives. Agencies are also trying to determine how long he had been active in the region.
Following Yasir’s death, security agencies have intensified their investigation into his network and activities. Officials are examining his links with other Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives and possible associates in Jammu and Kashmir. Investigators are also checking whether Yasir played any role in planning, facilitating or supporting recent terror activities in the region. Security agencies are gathering intelligence about his movements, contacts and possible logistical support. The investigation could provide further information about the wider militant network operating in Kashmir. Authorities are also assessing whether other individuals helped Yasir maintain his activities or evade security forces.
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Agencies Probe Yasir’s Links and Sulaiman Musa’s Terror Network
The Yousmarg encounter comes as security forces continue to intensify counter-terror operations across Jammu and Kashmir. Forces have increased intelligence-based searches in areas where terrorists may attempt to establish hideouts or move through difficult terrain. Security agencies are closely monitoring suspected militant networks and their support systems. Joint operations involving specialised units and Rashtriya Rifles aim to disrupt terrorist activities before militants can carry out attacks. Officials are also using intelligence inputs to track suspected operatives and identify their associates. The killing of Yasir is expected to provide agencies with additional leads as they investigate Lashkar’s activities in the region.
Sulaiman Musa, also known as Hashim Moosa, was identified by security agencies as a key Lashkar-e-Taiba operative. He was accused of playing a major role in the 2025 Pahalgam terror attack. Security forces later tracked Musa and launched an operation against him in the Dachigam forest area of Srinagar. Forces killed him during an encounter after locating him in the forest region. His death marked a major setback for the Lashkar network operating in Jammu and Kashmir. Yasir’s earlier association with Musa’s group has now drawn renewed attention from investigators. Security agencies are examining whether Yasir maintained any operational, logistical or communication links with Musa’s network after leaving the group.
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