Srinagar, April 8 -- Security forces on Wednesday detected and defused a powerful improvised explosive device (IED) in Shopian, averting a potential attack, officials said.

The IED was found along the Zainapora-Chitargam road during routine sanitization operations and was suspected to be planted to target security forces' vehicles.

A bomb disposal squad was immediately rushed to the spot and successfully neutralized the device, preventing any damage or casualties.

Officials said timely detection helped avert a major tragedy. (Agencies)

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from The Northlines....