Two Pakistan-based terrorists killed in infiltration bid, warlike stores recovered

Two terrorists, believed to be Pakistani, were gunned down by Army troops late Thursday evening after attempting to infiltrate from the Pakistan Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) side in Poonch sector. Following the incident, a search operation was launched, resulting in the recovery of warlike stores.

The infiltration attempt occurred in the Khari Karmara area along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district. Soldiers stationed near the border tracked the suspicious movement, and when the militants reached the LoC and attempted to cross into Indian Territory, the troops opened fire. Initially, it was reported that two terrorists had been hit, but their fate was not confirmed until the following morning. On Friday, a search operation revealed the bodies of the suspected Pakistani militants.

In a statement, the Nagrota-based White Knight Corps of the Indian Army confirmed, “Terrorist movement was detected in Poonch sector along the LoC. Alert troops opened fire leading to a heavy exchange of fire.” The statement added, “Alert troops swiftly engaged the infiltrating terrorists, triggering an intense and heavy fire-fight. The operation continued through the night, leading to the neutralisation of two terrorists. The search of the area thus far has resulted in the recovery of a number of weapons and war-like stores. Operations continue.”

A source within Army intelligence revealed that soldiers from the 5 Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI), stationed on the zero line, fired rounds from small and medium weapons at the infiltrators as they observed suspicious movement. The source also mentioned that an explosion was heard during the exchange of fire. Additionally, the 9 Sikh Light Infantry is deployed in a nearby area.

The region, characterised by thick foliage, has prompted security forces to strengthen their presence to prevent any potential infiltration. Search operations continued throughout Friday, during which a large volume of arms and ammunition was recovered from the slain terrorists.

In the past, terrorists have carried out attacks on Army convoys in Poonch district after infiltrating from PoJK, often taking advantage of the dense forests to ambush security forces. However, the region had been experiencing relative peace in recent times.