Sopore encounter called off as militants manage to escape

The operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Sopore area that claimed the life of an Army soldier was called off on day three as terrorists fled from the scene, officials said. According to officials, after no fresh contact with militants was established, a thorough search of the area was carried out, but no militants were found. “They probably managed to escape during the initial contact with security personnel,” an official said.

The encounter began following a tip-off regarding the presence of militants. On Sunday evening, security forces uncovered a hideout in the Zaloora Gujjarpati area of Sopore.

A joint team of police and Army personnel launched a cordon and search operation, which led to an exchange of fire with militants.

During the encounter, a soldier, identified as Pangala Kartheek, was injured. He later succumbed to his injuries.

In the aftermath, Sopore police issued a warning regarding the sharing of sensitive information about the operation. “It has been reported that certain individuals are circulating/sharing sensitive details about the Gujjarpati/Zaloora incident without considering the security ramifications.