Indian security forces have neutralized three top Lashkar-e-Taiba militants—including the mastermind of the deadly Pahalgam attack—in a high-risk, pre-dawn operation codenamed “Operation Mahadev” carried out in the forested Harwan-Dachigam region on July 28, 2025.
The slain terrorists have been identified as Suleiman Shah (alias Hashim Musa), a former Pakistani army special forces commando turned key Lashkar commander, and his associates Abu Hamza and Yasir (alias Jibran), , both foreign nationals and elite operatives of the Lashkar-backed proxy, The Resistance Front.
The operation was the culmination of a 14-day intelligence-led manhunt, involving advanced electronic surveillance, satellite phone intercepts, and tactical ground movement in the rugged terrain between the Mahadev and Zabarwan ridges—just a few kilometres from Srinagar city.
According to the reports, security forces recovered an M4 carbine, two AK-47 assault rifles, 17 grenades, high-frequency encrypted radios, and Pakistani-origin supplies from the encounter site. Officials say the group was likely planning additional attacks before being intercepted.
The operation was led jointly by units of the Indian Army, Jammu & Kashmir Police , and CRPF, showcasing tight inter-agency coordination. Local sources report a prolonged gunfight before the terrorists were neutralized.
The April 22 Pahalgam massacre, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians mostly tourists—in Baisaran Valley, was entirely plotted across the border by Lashkar leadership with ISI backing, and executed without local militant involvement, says news reports
Senior defence officials have termed Operation Mahadev a clean strike on foreign terror infrastructure and a clear message to Pakistan-based handlers.
Security in the surrounding areas has been stepped up. Drone surveillance and combing operations are ongoing to rule out the presence of any remaining operatives.
