Security forces conduct random search operations in Srinagar

Srinagar, Aug 4 (UNI) Security forces today conducted random search operations, affecting normal business activates and traffic movement in the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.

Shopkeeprs were busy attending their customers in the historic Lal Chowk, the nerve centre of the city, when suddenly Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and state police personnel sealed off the entire area from Gantha Ghar to Court road.

All those present in the area, including students, women and children were directed to stand in queues. Security forces then checked their identity cards and allowed them to leave the cordoned off area after frisking.

Traffic on the busy Lal Chowk was diverted to alternative route leading to traffic jams.

However, no one was detained, official sources said.

Shopkeepers in the area and adjacent commercial places recently closed their shops for two hours to lodge a protest against almost daily search operations in the area.

They alleged that daily search operations had affected their business as customers feel harassed and humiliated.

Traffic on the Moulana Azad and Residency roads was also affected for hours due to similar operations at other places.

Passengers in vehicles coming from outskirts to city were frisked at different places and their identity cards checked properly.

We donot want to leave anything to chance as militants will try to smuggle in arms and ammunition into city to cause disturbances on or before the Independence day on August 15, a security force officer said at Khayam chowk.

UNI