Intel alert on terror threat to Amarnath Yatra issued. Alert claims LeT and Hizb terrorists recced the Yatra route. 5 terror commanders spotted in nearby areas: Sources

Intelligence and security agencies have issued a fresh warning about a possible terror attack on the ongoing Amarnath Yatra. Latest inputs suggest that terror outfits Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and Hizb-ul-Mujahideen (HM) are planning an attack targeting the pilgrims.

An intel report claims that on July 16 and 17, five senior terrorist commanders conducted a recce of the Yatra route and nearby areas.

According to sources, LeT commander Abu Hurraira was stationed at Gulab Bagh and Zakoora areas of Srinagar to keep an eye on the route.

Another LeT commander Saleem Parray was spotted in plantation areas of Khusarpora and Hajin which fall on the Yatra route, while LeT militant Mir Zargam was also seen in Hajin's Vijpara area.

And while Muzaffar Bhat group belonging to Hizb-ul-Mujahideen was seen in Cheddar and Matalhama villages of Kulgam, another HM group Abass Sheikh was observed in Ganjipora and Gassipora villages of the district.

Furthermore, Lateef Dar of HM's Reyaz Naikoo group was also seen roaming around in Padgampora area of Awantipora.

Sources have said that the intention of all of these terrorists is to strike the Amarnath Yatra. Therefore, security has been tightened after the alert.

On Saturday morning, a batch of 663 pilgrims left Jammu for the Kashmir Valley to perform the ongoing Amarnath Yatra.

The annual pilgrimage has been going on for the last 31 days and till Friday, 2,51,996 pilgrims have performed the Yatra at the Himalayan Cave Shrine that houses an ice stalagmite structure believed to symbolise the mythical powers of Lord Shiva.

The 60-day Amarnath Yatra will end on August 26, coinciding with the Raksha Bandhan festival.