J-K: Security forces recover IED in Baramulla, avert major incident ahead of Republic Day

Security forces on Tuesday averted a potential terror incident with the timely detection of an improvised explosive device (IED) on the Srinagar–Baramulla highway in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district, officials said.

The IED was found during routine patrolling at Takiya Tapper in the Pattani area, where suspected terrorists had planted the explosive along the roadside, apparently with the intention of targeting security forces or civilian movement on the busy stretch. A bomb disposal squad was immediately rushed to the spot to safely neutralise the device.

The recovery comes less than a week ahead of Republic Day celebrations, a period considered sensitive from a security perspective. Officials said the detection underscores the effectiveness of intensified counter-insurgency and area domination operations being carried out by security forces across north Kashmir to thwart subversive activities.

In view of heightened threat perceptions and intelligence inputs about possible attempts to disrupt peace, security arrangements across the Kashmir Valley have been further strengthened. Additional patrols, checkpoints and surveillance measures have been put in place as part of ongoing counter-terror operations aimed at ensuring a peaceful Republic Day.