Security forces killed another terrorist on Tuesday in the Battal area of Akhnoor during an ongoing operation. This operation follows an attempted ambush on an Army vehicle on October 28, bringing the total number of terrorists neutralized to two.
Officials reported that fresh firing erupted within the cordoned-off area near the Line of Control (LoC) where one terrorist was killed earlier. “The operation in the area continues,” they stated.
On Monday, the Army confirmed that they killed one terrorist during a gunfight after a vehicle attack in the Akhnoor sector, which lies along the LoC. Tragically, the Army also lost its expert dog, Phantom, in this confrontation. Security forces recovered the slain terrorist’s body along with a weapon as they intensified efforts to neutralize other suspected terrorists believed to be holed up in the area.
Ongoing Operations and Reinforcements
The Army reported that a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) is still in progress, with helicopters, drones, and other technological support deployed to assist ground forces. The encounter began early Tuesday morning when a group of three terrorists attacked Army vehicles in Sunderbani. The Army swiftly cordoned off the area, establishing contact with the hiding terrorists, which led to a fierce exchange of fire. In this encounter, one unidentified terrorist was killed.
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As the operation continues, security forces have sealed all potential exit points and rushed additional reinforcements to the area. Intelligence sources indicate that these three terrorists likely infiltrated the region recently, as the border is only two kilometers from the encounter site.
National Security Guard (NSG) commandos also joined the effort, assisting the Army and Jammu police, who are leading the operation. A Russian-made BMP-II infantry combat vehicle, known as ‘Sarath,’ has been deployed to support the CASO.
Tributes and Investigations
Following the operation, the Army reported recovering the body of one terrorist along with a weapon. After the attempted ambush, the remaining terrorists fled into nearby forested areas. The Indian Army’s White Knight Corps posted on X, “The body of one terrorist along with a weapon has been recovered. Operations are under progress.”
In a heartfelt tribute, the Army honored its dog, Phantom. A defense spokesman stated, “We salute the supreme sacrifice of our true hero – a valiant #IndianArmy Dog, #Phantom. As our troops closed in on the trapped terrorists, Phantom drew enemy fire, sustaining fatal injuries. His courage, loyalty, and dedication will never be forgotten.”
Additional Director General of Police Jammu, Anand Jain, and DIG Shiv Kumar visited the encounter site to review ongoing operations. Sources indicated that security forces were preparing for a final assault, firing rocket launchers at suspected hiding spots.
Earlier reports suggesting that three militants had been neutralized were refuted by both police and Army officials. A police spokesperson clarified, “We deny reports that three terrorists have been neutralized. No injuries were reported from the attempted ambush on the Army vehicle. Investigations are still ongoing.”
The spokesperson urged the public to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information, stating, “The situation remains under control. Security forces are closely monitoring the area following recent alerts for the border districts.”
In the past week, separate incidents of terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir have resulted in at least 12 deaths, including two soldiers.
