The investigation into the 11 November attack on a CRPF naka party in Kulgam has widened, with security agencies examining the suspected role of a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) module and possible local assistance. More than 500 people have been questioned over the past two days, while at least 20 people remain detained for further interrogation, according to investigators. No formal arrest has been made so far.
The firing took place at about 2:15 pm on 11 November 2026 at Akhran, near Mir Bazar in Kulgam. The target was a CRPF naka party of the force’s 46th Battalion. Three personnel were injured in the attack. Security agencies are focusing on a group that investigators believe was led by local operative Abdul Latief and included two Pakistani terrorists.
Investigators examine local support
Investigators believe the assault was preceded by detailed reconnaissance rather than being an impulsive attack. They are also examining whether over ground workers initially provided a hideout to the attackers and later assisted them in reaching an escape route. Three of the people detained for questioning are suspected of being LeT over ground workers, according to the investigation.
The account of how the firing took place has also changed after security agencies examined CCTV footage. An earlier possibility that the attackers had arrived on a motorbike is being reassessed. Investigators now believe the firing came from a marshy, tree-covered stretch, where dense vegetation provided cover. The attackers were approximately 50 metres from the CRPF party when they opened fire with AK rifles.
| Investigation detail | Information reported |
|---|---|
| Place of attack | Akhran, near Mir Bazar, Kulgam |
| Time and date | About 2:15 pm on 11 November 2026 |
| CRPF formation | 46th Battalion naka party |
| Questioned | More than 500 people |
| Detained | At least 20 people |
Forensic experts have collected empty cartridges from the site. They are examining whether cartridges recovered from the attack match those used in earlier attacks. CCTV footage from different angles is also being scanned as part of efforts to identify the attackers and establish their movements before and after the firing.
The attackers fired 30 rounds in about 15 seconds, according to the investigation. They then used the trees and difficult terrain to leave the area. The circumstances have led security agencies to examine both the firing position and the possible assistance provided before and after the attack.
Three CRPF personnel injured
The injured personnel have been identified as Head Constable Somveer Singh, Constable Rakesh Dass and Constable Santosh Chandru. Singh suffered a bullet injury to his arm, while Dass was injured in the leg. Chandru sustained injuries to his abdomen and spine and was described as slightly serious.
- All three injured personnel were shifted to GMC Anantnag.
- Chandru was later moved to 92 Base Hospital, Srinagar, for advanced treatment.
- Security agencies are continuing the investigation into the suspected LeT module and its possible local support network.
The questioning has so far resulted in releases for most of those examined, while the detained individuals remain under interrogation. The investigation is also testing forensic evidence against material from previous attacks, as agencies work to establish the identities of the attackers and determine whether local support facilitated the operation.
