Srinagar, June 15: Director General of Police R R Swain has described the recent terror incidents as desperate attempts by Pakistan handlers to sustain terrorism in the region following significant setbacks to terror infrastructure in Kashmir.
Addressing the media during his visit to SaidaSukhal village in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district, where two suspected terrorists and a CRPF jawan were killed in a 15-hour operation this week, DGP Swain emphasized the ongoing challenges and expressed confidence in overcoming them soon.
“The challenge originates from across the border, where terror handlers are determined to perpetuate instability,” Swain stated. He noted that these handlers understand the diminishing days of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir despite the severe blow to their infrastructure. “For those whose livelihoods depend on terrorism, giving it up is not an easy choice,” he added.
Swain highlighted the reduced number of terrorists, likening them to “rats with guns” who continue to attack innocent people. He assured that such acts would be stopped, emphasizing the combined efforts of Village Defence Guards, police, CRPF, and the Army. “They tried to cause chaos in Jammu for years before failing. They will fail again,” he asserted.
The DGP also mentioned the central government’s initiatives to strengthen manpower, equipment, and training to combat terrorism. He urged the public to verify information regarding terrorist movements to prevent the spread of misinformation.
Addressing the issue of drones, Swain acknowledged the challenge posed by Pakistan’s use of drones to deliver weapons and narcotics.
Swain emphasised that a small group of individuals supports terrorism, and strict action will be taken against them to set an example. “We must recognize that this is a war forced upon us. Our strategy aims not only to eliminate them but also to minimize harm to ourselves,” he said.
The Police Chief said the number of terrorists has gone down, but like rats with guns, they keep attacking innocent people,” he said, adding that it will be stopped.
“With Village Defence Guards, police, CRPF, and the Army, how long can they keep going?. They tried to cause chaos in Jammu for years before failing. They will fail again,” he said.
He encouraged the public to continue sharing information but urged verification to avoid misinformation.
“Let’s avoid false alarms and ensure we’re in the right place at the right time,” he said, adding that the police’s prompt response to all tips received.
The recent attacks targeted four locations, including a pilgrim bus in Reasi, Kathua, and Doda districts from June 9 to 12, resulting in nine deaths, including a CRPF jawan, and numerous injuries. Two suspected Pakistani terrorists were killed in an encounter in Kathua.
Accompanied by Additional Director General of Police, Jammu zone, Anand Jain, Swain interacted with police personnel deployed in the village for an ongoing search operation. The DGP also visited the Hiranagar police station and addressed the policemen, lauding their role in the recent gunfight.
