J&K: Those instigating youth to join militants on cop radar

Jammu and Kashmir police have launched an operation to seek out people who are prodding youngsters in the state to join militants, and have arrested a wanted over-ground worker (OGW), Ishtiaq Ahmed Wani, who was at large after allegedly inciting youths in Pattan and Palhallan area to join Hizbul Mujahideen terror outfit.

Considered the backbone of the militancy, OGWs work clandestinely to provide logistics, carry out reconnaissance of targets, arrange hideouts, help in recruitment. manage finances, and act as guides for armed militants in the state.

"Due to continual pressure and encounters by the police and other security agencies, most of the militants who were active in north Kashmir have been neutralised. So the controllers of Hizbul Mujadeen from across the border and within Kashmir are trying to accelerate the recruitment process in this area," said Imtiyaz Hussain, senior superintendent of police, Baramulla.

Police said they saved around 10 youths from the being recruited by terrorists. Of these, four were motivated by Ishtiaq to join Hizbul, the officials said.

"A case under Section 13 of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Section 506 of the Ranbir Penal Code has been registered. Investigation has been taken up," said Hussain.