Jammu, Dec 23: In the aftermath of a deadly terrorist attack in the Poonch district of Jammu on Thursday, which resulted in the martyrdom of at least five Indian army soldiers and left two others injured, security forces have ramped up search operations in the region.
A top official revealed to Rising Kashmir that security vigilance has been heightened throughout the Pir Panjal Valley. Intensive search operations are underway to locate the terrorists responsible for the attack. Close monitoring of the situation is ongoing, with additional police and paramilitary personnel deployed in the area.
As a precautionary measure, internet services have been suspended in Poonch and Rajouri districts to curb rumour-mongering and prevent potential law and order issues.
The terrorists targeted an army gypsy and a truck at Dhatyar Morh between Dera Ki Gali and Bufliaz in Poonch late Thursday afternoon, resulting in the martyrdom of five soldiers and injuring two others. Despite launching a massive search operation immediately after the attack in densely forested areas, there has been no fresh contact with the fleeing terrorists so far.
In mysterious circumstances, three civilians were found near the ambush site by terrorists on army vehicles. They were later handed over to their families for last rites.
The government, responding to the tragic incident, announced legal action initiated by the appropriate authority. Compensation has been announced for each deceased soldier, along with compassionate appointments for the next of kin.
Addressing the situation, the Indian Army, in a statement on the microblogging site ‘X,’ stated, “Terrorist Initiated Incident at Bafliaz in Poonch-Rajouri Sector (21/22 Dec 23). Search operations by the Security Forces are continuing in the area of operations after the incident of December 21, 2023.” The statement continued, “Reports have been received regarding three civilian deaths in the area. The matter is under investigation. Indian Army stands committed to extending full support and cooperation in the conduct of investigations (sic.)”.
