Security alert in Jammu as overpowered vehicle enters region

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have issued a high alert in the Jammu region following reports of a vehicle being overpowered by three suspects who entered the area from Kashmir. The incident, which occurred on January 20, has raised concerns as the whereabouts of the vehicle and its occupants remain unknown.

According to officials, the incident took place at the Arwani underpass on National Highway 44, situated on the outskirts of Central Kashmir. The vehicle, a Tavera driven by Mehraj Bhat, started its journey from the Anantnag taxi stand en route to Srinagar. At the Arwani underpass, three passengers with distinct attire—one wearing a pheran and the others in shirt/trousers—boarded the vehicle bound for Srinagar.

The destination of the vehicle changed multiple times, starting from Pantha Chowk to Summer Bugh Lasjan and later to Tangan Bypass near Pampore, as the driver hesitated to proceed to Srinagar proper. The situation took a serious turn at Tangan Bypass when the passengers forcefully overpowered the vehicle, redirecting it towards Srinagar, after the driver denied their earlier request to be dropped in Jammu.

Following the incident, the driver, Mehraj Bhat, promptly reported the matter to the Police, and a case has been registered at the Nowgam Police Station. The vehicle, after being overpowered, crossed the Kaichachkoot toll plaza towards Srinagar approximately an hour later. However, its current location remains unknown.

Senior officials from the Jammu and Kashmir Police have disclosed that the overpowered vehicle crossed the Nashri Tunnel near Udhampur on the midnight of the same day and has since become untraceable. The security forces are actively engaged in efforts to locate the vehicle and the three suspects.

The incident has raised security concerns in the region, prompting heightened vigilance and increased security measures. The Jammu and Kashmir Police are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to ensure the safety and security of the region.