LoC shootout ends decades-long run of 'human GPS' terrorist

SRINAGAR: Bagu Khan knew every trail, every ridge, every hidden path across the LOC. The terrorist guide dubbed “human GPS” was killed in a gunfight with security forces in north Kashmir’s Gurez sector on Aug 28, officials said Saturday.

Security officials said Khan had facilitated nearly 100 infiltration attempts over decades, often slipping across the LoC himself. A resident of Bandipora in north Kashmir, he allegedly crossed into PoK in 1995 for arms training and first joined Hizbul Mujahideen . He later shifted between groups but earned his nickname for navigating treacherous mountain passes with uncanny precision.

Khan was one of two terrorists gunned down during an alleged infiltration attempt in Naushera Nar of Bandipora. Soldiers spotted suspicious movement along the LoC and challenged the intruders. “They opened fire. Troops responded with counter-fire, neutralising two terrorists,” the Army said. The second slain man is believed to be a Pakistani.

Officials said Khan’s death could deal a blow to infiltration networks along the LoC. His mastery of terrain made him indispensable for Pakistan-backed banned groups. “Loss of such an experienced guide can limit the ability of infiltrators to negotiate high-altitude routes and escape detection,” a source said.

Official sources estimated 70 Pakistani terrorists are currently active in J&K, aided by guides like Khan to cross rugged terrain — deep gorges, dense forests, mountain caves, and natural hideouts offering ample cover. These highly trained intruders typically move in small groups of three to four, carry sophisticated weapons, including M4 carbines, and use iridium satellite phones and thermal imagery to coordinate and avoid detection. Their capability to exploit terrain and technology remains a serious challenge for security forces.

This year, forces have killed 16 terrorists in Kashmir region, including three top Lashkar-e-Taiba operatives linked to the April 22 Pahalgam attack. The trio was shot dead in Srinagar on July 28.

In a separate action Saturday, J&K police said they attached immovable property worth lakhs of rupees in Pulwama belonging to Gulzar Ahmad Dar, father of “designated terrorist” Arjumand Gulzar alias Hamza Bhai of banned outfit Al-Badr.

Police warned civilians against aiding terrorists. “Police once again appeal to the general public not to provide shelter or support to terrorists, failing which they shall face strict legal action,” the statement read.