Pakistan’s intelligence agency ISI has made modifications in the app for its operations. This app is typically used by adventure enthusiasts for trekking.
Recent actions by the Indian Army in Jammu and Kashmir have changed the scenario in the region, leading to a loss of trust between Pakistan-backed foreign terrorists and the local Kashmiri terrorist networks. Under the tight surveillance by security forces, terrorists are avoiding the use of satellite and radio phones. Instead, they have started using offline location apps like ‘Alpine Quest’ for their operations.
Terrorist in J&K
According to reports, ISI, Pakistan’s intelligence agency, has made modifications in the app for its operations. Terrorist networks in Kashmir have been significantly disrupted, leaving them with limited local support. This app is typically used by adventure enthusiasts for trekking.
As per security agency data, the number of active terrorists in Kashmir Valley is estimated at over 125. Out of these 125 terrorists, about 45 are believed to be operating in Rajouri-Poonch, Kathua, Udhampur-Doda, and Kishtwar in Jammu region. Foreign terrorists affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), The Resistance Front (TRF), and Jaish-e-Mohammed’s (JeM) offshoots, are estimated to number around 50.
Terrorists Turn to Alpine Quest App
A senior security official said that foreign terrorists are maintaining minimal contact with local overground workers and guides. To avoid detection by jawans, these terrorists have started relying on the offline version of the Alpine Quest app. They are using the app for navigation and movement between hideouts.
Terrorist commanders and handlers are very cautious of local operatives switching sides and sharing information with the Indian Army, leading them to prefer the app over human guides.
How Alpine Quest Works?
This app is considered an advanced version of Google Earth. Adventurers mostly use it to navigate forests, rivers, and mountains. With this app users can save predefined routes, enabling them to cross remote terrains without internet access.
Terrorists use the app to create and preserve detailed maps of their routes, which they can later access offline.
Use in Rajouri-Poonch Attacks
As per the past two years of investigations, including interrogations of captured terrorists and recovered equipment, militants are using digital tools and social media platforms.
In attacks across Rajouri-Poonch, Kathua, Doda, and Anantnag, the Alpine Quest app was used to navigate to targets and retreat to hideouts without being traced.
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