In the wake of a crucial encounter with three Khalistan Zindabad Force (KZF) terrorists in Pilibhit on December 23, Uttar Pradesh (UP) Police has intensified its efforts to track down local accomplices and disrupt terror networks operating in the Terai region of the state. The encounter resulted in the killing of three alleged Khalistani terrorists, suspected to have been involved in the Gurdaspur grenade attack earlier this year. Punjab’s Director-General of Police, Gaurav Yadav, called the operation a significant breakthrough, highlighting the terror network’s connection to Pakistan.
Inspector-General (IG) Rakesh Singh of Bareilly Range emphasized that the heightened security response was driven by numerous intelligence inputs indicating potential threats. He assured that security protocols along the border regions have been bolstered, especially in areas near Puranpur, a key point along the UP-Nepal border. Singh further stated, “Action will be taken against anyone found aiding terror elements.”
The encounter has renewed focus on the challenges posed by the Nepal border, particularly due to the rugged terrain and limited surveillance infrastructure. Authorities, including the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), have stepped up efforts to monitor the region more effectively and prevent the infiltration of terror elements.
The incident also follows a series of explosions in Punjab earlier this month, further raising concerns about the spread of terror networks. The joint efforts of UP Police and Punjab Police were instrumental in neutralizing the terrorists after they fired upon the security forces during the operation in Pilibhit.
The security forces have stressed the importance of strict vigilance and intelligence-sharing between states, as well as enhanced border coordination to curb the movement of such groups. Authorities have vowed to take stringent action against any collaborators or sympathizers linked to these terror networks.