Srinagar, Oct 07: Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Vijay Kumar Thursday said that this year so far 28 civilians including five hindus and two non-local labourers were killed by the militants in Kashmir.

“A total 28 civilians have been killed by militants this year in 2021. Out of 28, five persons belong to the local hindu/sikh community and two were non-local labourers,” the IGP said.

He said that due to killing of huge numbers of militants of all outfits, especially their leadership, “destruction of their support structures and continuous and effective maintenance of law & order,” militant handlers across have got frustrated and changed their strategy. “They have now started targeting unarmed policemen, innocent civilians, politicians and now innocent civilians from minority communities including women,” the IGP said.

He said that in all such cases militants have been using pistols. “These acts are committed by newly recruited militants or those who are about to join militant ranks.

“In some cases, OGWs have been found directly involved. Police are working hard and we are identifying all such part-time /hybrid militants and strictest action shall be taken against them,” he said. “We have received several leads and are working on it. We have also been launching operations along with other security forces. We appeal to the general public, especially minority communities, not to panic. We have been maintaining peace and a secured environment and will continue to do so.”. Kno