Terrorists may target shrines in Jammu, warn intel sources

Mukesh Ranjan

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, July 30

In an alert issued by the Intelligence Bureau (IB), the security agencies have been asked to keep “extra vigil” against Pakistan-backed terror outfits as they are planning to target temples in Jammu and may launch attack through drones in a bid to disturb communal harmony in the region.

Sources in the IB said high alert had been issued in view of the upcoming anniversary day of Parliament’s decision to do away with J&K’s special status on August 5, 2019 and the Independence Day on August 15.

Terror inputs are there that outfits like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Toiba are planning to hit locations in Jammu using drones or planting IED inside or outside Hindu religious places.

Sources in the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) confirmed that in the recent past there three such attempts were made, but foiled by the forces.

As per the radio interceptions, the focus of the terror outfits has now shifted to the Jammu region as their men in Kashmir are being neutralised on a regular basis.

IB sources also cautioned security men against fake phone calls coming from Pakistan amid the fear of drone attack.