Overview
- Security forces launched an intelligence-led joint operation in the Korag–Yousmarg area of Budgam that ended with the recovery of Mohammad Asif, also known as Hashim Moosa, after an exchange of fire between troops and suspects.
- Officials confirmed the body and war-like stores including an AK-47, magazines and short-range LoRa/Ultra communication devices were recovered during follow-up searches in the Palmaidan area.
- The Home Ministry said this killing completes the neutralisation of a four-member LeT commander group tracked since 2022 and linked by agencies to several high-profile attacks, including the April 2025 Pahalgam assault.
- Government statements and security sources describe the operation as the culmination of Operation Sheruwali, launched in May 2026, and the immediate tactical phase as Operation Korag based on specific actionable intelligence.
- Reports from security agencies identify Moosa as a Pakistan-based operative with alleged prior service in Pakistan’s SSG; authorities warn that broader counterterror searches and investigations into handlers and logistics will continue.