In a severe escalation of violence, the region of Jammu & Kashmir has experienced three separate terrorist attacks within just three days, prompting intensified security measures across the area. The wave of terror has led to injuries among security personnel and civilians, as well as ongoing operations to neutralize threats.
Three security personnel were injured in an exchange of gunfire between terrorists and security forces at a joint checkpoint in the Chattergalla area of Doda district late Tuesday night. The checkpoint, manned by the 4 Rashtriya Rifles and police, came under attack, leading to a fierce firefight, according to officials.
In another incident, police and security forces are engaged in a manhunt for a terrorist hiding in Saida Sukhal village in Kathua district. The area has been cordoned off, and a house-to-house search is underway with assistance from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
These attacks follow a recent terrorist strike in Reasi, where a bus carrying pilgrims from the Shiv Khori temple to Katra was attacked, causing the vehicle to plunge into a deep gorge. This tragic incident resulted in nine deaths and 41 injuries, marking a significant escalation in violence and prompting increased security measures across the region.
On Tuesday evening, security forces neutralized a suspected Pakistani terrorist who had infiltrated a village near the International Border (IB), injuring a civilian in the process. The terrorist was killed after an exchange of fire when he attempted to lob a grenade at the police.
The operation in Saida Sukhal commenced after two terrorists, believed to have recently infiltrated from across the border, appeared in the village asking for water. This raised the villagers’ suspicions, and an alarm was raised. The terrorists responded by firing randomly, injuring a resident named Omkar Nath. Nath was evacuated to a hospital with an arm injury, while his wife remained unhurt.
The Station House Officer (SHO) of Hiranagar and the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) engaged the terrorists, leading to the death of one terrorist. An AK assault rifle and a rucksack were recovered from the slain terrorist, whose identity and group affiliation are yet to be confirmed.
Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) for the Jammu zone, Anand Jain, provided details about the Kathua operation. “Two terrorists who appeared to be freshly infiltrated surfaced in Saida Sukhal village and asked for water from a household. The people got frightened and alerted us. One terrorist was killed in the exchange of fire, while the second is believed to be hiding in the village.”
The operation continues, with security forces on high alert to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of residents.
The recent spate of attacks in Jammu & Kashmir underscores the persistent threat of terrorism in the region. Security forces are on heightened alert, working tirelessly to neutralize threats and protect civilians amidst the ongoing violence.
