The prize catch for counter-insurgency forces in the state, Musbahuddin was arrested from Srinagar on Dec 6, 2007. The dreaded militant commander is known for his proximity to Hizb Chief and Chairman of the United Jehad Council Syed Sallahuddin. He had taken over the operations command of Hizbul Mujahideen in 2003.

The released guerrilla commander has apparently gone underground leaving security officials red faced.

Officials are tight-lipped whether the guerrilla commander had actually given them a slip.

'The court ordered his release and he was released. That is all I can tell you at the moment,' said another police officer.