‘More suicide attacks on forces likely’

“We are trying to ascertain whether both the attacks (on Monday) were carried out by the same group or there were two different modules. These attacks also show the desperation of militant groups operating in the Valley who are planning to step up their activities during the summer season. More such attacks, including fidayeen (suicide) attacks on security forces, are expected in the days ahead so security now is at an all-time high. There is some concern that some local youth may have joined the Hizbul Mujahideen in the last few days and some are acting as sleeper cells for the terror outfit,” an intelligence official said.

The state government described the killings of the policemen as “unfortunate”.

“Such incidents and inimical forces will not deter our determination to restore peace and order or sabotage our mission for development and provide succour to the common man. Such incidents will not weaken our resolve,” deputy chief minister Nirmal Singh said.

Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi said the twin terror strikes in Srinagar were “extremely worrying”. “News of terror attacks in Zadibal & Tengpora in Srinagar extremely worrying. My condolences to families of policemen martyred in these attacks (sic),” Mr Gandhi tweeted.