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SMHS Shootout: Not possible without connivance at the Srinagar Central Jail, says Police

Srinagar: The SMHS shootout, in which a Lashkar militant escaped and two cops were killed, was a well planned and executed attack which points towards lapses in the security system, reported the IANS.

S P Vaid, the Director General of Police said that the attack and the escape of Naveed Jat from SMHS hospital was ‘not possible without connivance at the Srinagar Central Jail.’

DGP also informed that a Special Investigation Team (SIT) headed by a Superintendent  is looking into the matter.

“I believe a magisterial probe is also being ordered to ascertain all the facts that led to the attack and the subsequent escape,” Vaid said.

ALSO READPakistani militant escapes police custody after shootout in SMHS hospital

As to how such a ‘dreaded terrorist’ and a high value catch was lodged in a Srinagar prison not outside, Vaid pointed out that he was shifted to Srinagar after court orders.

Police Have reports that the shootout and escape was a joint effort of the Lashkar and the Hizbul Mujahidden.

A massive man hunt is already afoot to arrest Naveed, who has joined back his rank in Lashkar, according to a video clip released by Hizb commander Riyaz Naikoo.

Meanwhile Lashkar has congratulated militants for freeing their fellow. In a statement, LeT chief  said that the episode is the apex of militants strategy, planning and commitment to their cause. “All who participated in this momentous operation deserve congratulations and high level of appreciations.”

On Wednesday, the government informed that the FIR in connection with the shootout at SMHS hospital his been registered and the investigations have been taken up.

Earlier the Opposition while demanded a thorough probe into the matter had called the shootout a ‘serious security lapse.’

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