The ongoing encounter with terrorists in the forested Gadol area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag has extended into its fifth day. Thousands of soldiers, including paracommandos, are locked in a relentless battle against the militants who are taking advantage of the treacherous terrain and forest cover to evade capture, reported the Mint.
In the pursuit of neutralizing the terrorists, three officers, including two from the Army and one from the police, have tragically lost their lives during this 100-hour ordeal. The deceased officers are identified as Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak, and Humayun Bhat. Additionally, the body of another missing soldier was discovered, raising the death toll to four.
Security forces have employed a barrage of artillery, rockets, high-tech weaponry, and sophisticated drones to target the suspected terrorist hideouts. The encounter initially erupted on September 13th in the Kokernag area of Anantnag, with a joint team of Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police engaged in a relentless firefight.
Quadcopters and drones have been enlisted to aid in locating the terrorists who remain entrenched in the Kokernag area. Drone surveillance guides the forces in targeting specific areas where terrorists are believed to be hiding, with mortar shells being fired accordingly.
The troops have utilized grenades and grenade launchers dropped by drones to target the terrorist groups concealed in the region. However, the situation remains fluid and challenging.
Amidst the intense operation, Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) Kashmir Vijay Kumar has urged retired police and Army officials to avoid speculating on the situation, emphasizing the need for accurate and responsible reporting during this critical operation in Anantnag.
