A fierce gunfight in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, has left four police personnel and two Pakistani terrorists dead. The encounter began on Thursday morning and continued throughout Friday, with security forces extending the search operation to new areas on Saturday.
The bodies of the four police personnel, including Head Constable Jagbir Singh, were recovered and taken to Jammu for wreath-laying ceremonies. The two terrorists, believed to be affiliated with the Jaish-e-Mohammad outfit, were also recovered along with war-like stores.
Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat clarified that the initial report of three terrorists killed was incorrect, and only two terrorists were eliminated. The police chief also stated that the terrorists were part of a group that had earlier escaped capture in Saniyal village near the International Border.
The People’s Anti-Fascist Front, a shadow outfit of Jaish-e-Mohammed, has claimed responsibility for the encounter. Senior CPI(M) leader M Y Tarigami extended condolences to the families of the fallen police personnel, stating that “violence serves no purpose – it only brings pain and loss”.
The encounter highlights the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in combating terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. The Indian Army’s Rising Star Corps tweeted, “Relentless operations since March 27 have led to the elimination of two terrorists and recovery of war-like stores. The operation continues”
Reported by : State Times
