In a tragic incident, at least four soldiers lost their lives, and three sustained injuries during a terrorist ambush on two Indian Army vehicles in the Rajouri district of Jammu & Kashmir. The attack occurred on Thursday as the vehicles, carrying personnel to an active anti-terrorism operation, navigated a blind curve known as Dhatyar Morh between the Dera ki Gali (DKG) area and Bulfiaz.
The soldiers, belonging to the army’s 48 Rashtriya Rifles (48RR) unit, came under heavy fire from terrorists during their journey to the operational site. The ambush took place amid an ongoing operation in the general area of DKG, initiated following credible intelligence about the presence of terrorists.
Defence spokesperson Lt Col Suneel Bartwal confirmed the incident, stating that the troops immediately retaliated, but unfortunately, three soldiers were killed in action, and three others sustained injuries. Subsequent updates from an army spokesperson raised the toll to four deaths, with clarity pending on whether the fourth casualty was among the initially injured.
This marks the sixth attack since October 2021 in the twin border districts of Rajouri and Poonch, resulting in the loss of 29 army personnel, including officers. Despite the location not being as close to the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan as previous incidents, intelligence officials emphasized the treacherous terrain of the hilly and densely jungled region.
The ambush targeted a green army SUV (Maruti Gypsy), with images and videos captured afterward revealing the extent of damage with bullet-riddled windows and visible signs of the confrontation. The terrorists fled the scene after their indiscriminate firing on the convoy.
The ongoing operation in DKG, initiated based on “hard intelligence,” continues as reinforcements and ambulances rush to the site. Public movement in the area has been restricted for security reasons.
The attack underscores the persistent threats faced by Indian Army personnel in the region, emphasizing the need for heightened vigilance and counter-terrorism efforts.
As the operation unfolds, further details regarding the identities and ranks of the deceased and injured soldiers are awaited. The nation mourns the loss of these brave soldiers, and the incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by security forces in the volatile region.
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