Trekkers caught in anti-terror call ‘100’, rescued | India News – Times of India

SRINAGAR: It was a strange call coming to police helpline number ‘100’. But then two hikers who had called the police found themselves in an extraordinary situation, caught in the crossfire between them security forces and terrorists during their foray into Zabarwan Mountain on the outskirts of Srinagar. Both were eventually rescued.
‘It was an active one anti-terror operation This was going on on Sunday when the pullers, both teachers, called us,” said a senior police officer. With their bearded profiles, coupled with duffel bags on their backs, the armed forces, who had intelligence signaling the presence of terrorists in the area, had initially mistaken private school teachers as their intended targets.
Security forces opened fire on them, and as the shots rang out, the duo crouched behind a boulder, unsure of the source of the fusillade. The troops issued warnings and ordered them to surrender, but the frightened teachers continued to hide until someone finally managed to call the police. emergency helpline 100reported their predicament and asked for police help.
The police control room (PCR) then alerted the local SHO, who in turn informed senior officers. A rescue team led by Srinagar SSP quickly intervened, halted the operation and confirmed the identity of the trekkers before leaving. ‘The duo were rescued after they told us about their ordeal’ Kashmir Police said chief Vidhi Kumar Birdi, adding that the teachers were unhurt.
Birdi has now urged trekkers and adventurers to inform the nearest police station in advance about their travel plans and routes, especially in sensitive or remote areas where security operations may take place. “This protocol ensures that we can act quickly to ensure their safety if unexpected incidents occur,” he added.
Police said the teachers were carrying backpacks and sticks typical of both trekkers and terrorists. “It could have been a tragic mistake,” one officer said.