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Explosions Heard Near LoC In Poonch And Rajouri, Situation Under Watch

May 9, 2025, 4:01 am

Explosions were heard late last night in the vicinity of the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch and Rajouri districts of Jammu and Kashmir, causing security alert in the area.

#WATCH | Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir: Explosions heard near Line of Control (LoC). More details awaited

(Visuals deferred by unspecified time) pic.twitter.com/bQRqxOdPWB

— ANI (@ANI) May 8, 2025

Sources confirm that the noises sounded like blasts, but it is yet to be ascertained what actually caused them. The situation is being closely watched by authorities, and more details are awaited while security forces study the situation.

The accident is during a time of heightened Indo-Pak border tensions, leading to intensified watchfulness throughout forward areas.

After India’s Fierce Strikes, Pakistan Fires Back, Soldier Killed, Tensions Soar In Poonch

May 8, 2025, 2:14 am

One Indian Army soldier was martyred in Pakistan’s artillery shelling in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch sector on Wednesday, hours after India conducted targeted strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) under Operation Sindoor.

The killed soldier, Lance Naik Dinesh Kumar of the 5 Field Regiment, died of cross-border shelling injuries. The Indian Army’s White Knight Corps (XVI Corps) saluted the jawan on social media, praising his ultimate sacrifice and solidarity with civilians hit by the recent wave of attacks in the area.

As per defence officials, the situation is closely being watched by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, who has remained in touch with ground formations around the clock. Indian troops have been given freedom of operation to retaliate against Pakistan’s recurring ceasefire violations that have increasingly taken on civilian pockets.

On Wednesday, Indian troops carried out precision attacks on nine terror infrastructure locations deep within Pakistani territory and PoJK. The attacks, the deepest into uncluttered Pakistani territory since 1971, employed special guided munitions to strike five prime terror camps.

In a connected incident, a shell that was fired from the other side of the Line of Control hit Gurdwara Shri Guru Singh Sabha in the Poonch district, causing damage to portions of the building. Narinder Singh, president of the local Gurudwara committee, attested to damage to a door and a few window panes.

Pakistan’s shelling with artillery in Poonch and Tangdhar also killed 15 civilians and injured 43 others. In reaction to growing hostilities, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah called an emergency meeting to assess the situation on the border.

Security personnel throughout the region are on heightened alert following apprehensions of further provocation from Pakistan as India resolute its stand against terror outfits based in the neighboring country.

LoC Erupts In Firefight!: Indian Army’s Strong Reply To Ceasefire Violation In J&K

February 13, 2025, 6:23 am

Pakistani forces violated the ceasefire agreement on Wednesday by opening unprovoked fire at Indian posts along the Line of Control (LoC) in Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir. In response, the Indian Army launched a strong retaliation, reportedly causing “heavy casualties” on the enemy side, security officials said.

The extent of damage on the Pakistani side remains unclear, but an undated video circulating on social media purportedly shows a Pakistani army officer paying last respects to fallen soldiers.

Tensions Escalate Amid Recent Attacks

This ceasefire violation comes just a day after an IED explosion near the LoC in the Akhnoor sector killed two Indian Army personnel, including a captain. The attack was allegedly carried out by terrorists operating near the border.

The ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, which was reaffirmed on February 25, 2021, has largely held over the years. However, hostile activities from across the border have seen a sudden spike in recent days.

Series of Cross-Border Incidents

Wednesday’s incident marked the first ceasefire violation this year and the fourth cross-border attack within five days. On Monday, a soldier stationed at a forward post in Rajouri’s Nowshera sector was hit by a bullet fired from across the border. A few days earlier, terrorists opened fire on an Army patrol unit in Rajouri’s Keri sector. Additionally, during the night of February 4-5, a landmine explosion reportedly caused casualties among infiltrating terrorists in the Krishna Ghati sector.

Indian JCO Injured in Landmine Blast

In a separate incident on Wednesday, a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) of the Indian Army suffered minor injuries after accidentally stepping on a landmine in the Tarkundi area of Poonch. The officer, a resident of Mendhar, was part of a patrolling team monitoring the LoC to prevent terrorist infiltration. He was swiftly evacuated to a military hospital for treatment.

Army Leadership Reviews Security Situation

On February 10, Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the White Knight Corps, assessed the security situation in Rajouri. Accompanied by GOCs of the Ace of Spades and Crossed Swords divisions, he visited forward areas to receive operational updates.

In an official statement, the Army commended troops for their vigilance and unwavering operational focus. The corps commander also urged personnel to remain prepared for any contingencies amid rising tensions along the border.

Security Forces Open Fire on Suspected movement in Surankot of Poonch, Search Operation Underway

October 16, 2024, 11:08 pm

Poonch, Oct 16: In a major development from the Dhana Shahsitar area of Mendhar in Surankot, Poonch district, security forces opened fire on suspected terrorists after their movements were spotted inside a forested area. The joint operation, comprising the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police, was initiated following specific intelligence inputs about terrorist activity in the region.

Sources within the forces revealed that the search operation was launched after reports of suspicious movement, which raised alarms about potential infiltration or an active terrorist presence. As troops combed through the dense forest, they encountered movements that were deemed hostile, prompting the soldiers to open fire.

The operation is ongoing, with security forces continuing their efforts to flush out any remaining terrorists hiding in the area. The objective is clear: to ensure that any threat is neutralized before it can materialize further.

Rajouri, Poonch Voters Defy Fear, Turn Out in Large Numbers

September 26, 2024, 4:22 am

Despite recent terror activities, voters in the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch turned out in large numbers on Wednesday, continuing their tradition of enthusiastic participation in Jammu and Kashmir’s electoral process. The second phase of the three-phase Assembly elections, which also includes Reasi and three central Kashmir districts—Srinagar, Ganderbal, and Budgam—saw voters queuing up early at polling stations, including those close to the Line of Control (LoC).
The polling process remained peaceful, with officials reporting strong voter participation despite heightened security due to past terror incidents. Security arrangements were reinforced to ensure a safe environment for voters, especially in regions like Rajouri’s Dhangri village, where a terror attack on New Year’s Day last year claimed seven lives.
Deeraj Sharma expressed optimism about voter turnout, stating, “We are expecting 100 percent polling. This is a strong reply to the terrorists who seek to disturb Jammu and Kashmir.” Saroj, a widow who tragically lost both her sons in the Dhangri attack, also cast her vote. “We believe in democracy,” she said. “There is no place for terrorism in a democratic society. It must be dealt with firmly.”
In Poonch’s Surankote area, the residents of Topi Peer village, which suffered a terror ambush that killed four soldiers last year, also turned out in large numbers. “The vote is to strengthen democracy and choose our government after a long wait of 10 years,” said Mohd Arshid, a local resident, hopeful that the next government will prioritize the upliftment of remote areas like his.
The Election Commission reported strong early polling numbers, with Poonch leading at 33.06 percent and Rajouri at 30.04 percent by 11 a.m. Enthusiasm was visible not just in the hinterland but even in villages near the LoC, where residents voiced their faith in democracy. “This is the last village on the Indian side, and the long voter queues reflect the trust people have in the democratic process,” said Mohammad Akram from Balnoi village in Mankote sector.First-time voters like Saqib Mumtaz expressed happiness about participating in the elections. “The long wait to choose our MLA is over. We are thankful for the Schedule Tribe status granted to Paharis and hope the new government will upgrade education and healthcare,” she said.
District Development Council (DDC) member Wajid Bashir Khan acknowledged the eagerness of voters, noting that people have always shown a strong commitment to elections. “This is the first election in 10 years, and there is great enthusiasm among the people to vote,” he said.

Security Forces Launch Search Operation In Poonch After Suspected Terrorist Sighting

July 30, 2024, 4:13 pm

Poonch, July 30: Security forces initiated a cordon and search operation in a remote village in Poonch district following reports of movement by two suspected terrorists, officials announced on Tuesday.

The suspects, armed and dressed in black, were spotted late Monday night in Salampura village near Dehra Ki Gali, officials said. Police, along with the Rashtriya Rifles and CRPF, promptly launched a joint operation upon receiving the information.

The suspects were last seen moving towards lower Pangai, prompting an ongoing search operation. However, there has been no contact with the suspects so far, officials added.

In addition to Salampura, security forces have extended the search to Sanai, Jangal, Pattan, and surrounding villages in the Surankote area of Poonch. A search operation is also underway in the Bangar-Saroor forest area of Drabshalla in Kishtwar district.

SIA Attaches Property Of Narco-Terror Smuggler Near Poonch Line Of Control

July 27, 2024, 3:35 am

The State Investigation Agency (SIA) has attached the property of smuggler Mohd Liaqat in Khari Karmara village, near the Poonch Line of Control. The operation, conducted this morning, involved teams from the SIA along with district administration officials.

Azhar Majeed, Tehsildar Haveli, provided further details on the action: “The property of Mohd Liaqat has been attached in Khari Karmara, as he was involved in a narco-terror case. His property attachment order of the court has been executed. The government and the court take strict action when it comes to national integrity.”

This move is part of a broader effort to crack down on narco-terror activities and ensure the enforcement of law and order in the region.

Poonch Terror Attack: 1 IAF Personnel Killed, 4 Injured; Congress Leaders Condemn Attack

May 5, 2024, 1:01 am

One member of the Indian Air Force (IAF) lost his life and four others sustained injuries when their convoy came under attack by terrorists in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir’s Surankote area. The incident, which took place at Sanai village, resulted in the injured personnel being promptly transported to the Command Hospital in Udhampur, where unfortunately, one of them passed away due to his injuries.

Following the attack, the local Rashtriya Rifles unit initiated cordon and search operations in the vicinity, with support from the Army and police, to track down the perpetrators. The IAF confirmed the incident through a tweet, stating that the targeted convoy had been secured, and emphasising the ongoing investigation.

An Indian Air Force vehicle convoy was attacked by militants in the Poonch district of J&K, near Shahsitar. Cordon and search operations are underway presently in the area by local military units. The convoy has been secured, and further investigation is under progress.

— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) May 4, 2024

The Indian Air Force Garud Special Forces were deployed to the area for reinforcement. Amidst a confrontation with the terrorists, the IAF personnel engaged in a firefight, during which five of them sustained gunshot wounds. They were swiftly evacuated to the nearest military hospital for urgent medical care, but unfortunately, one of them succumbed to his injuries later.

Update

In the ensuing gunfight with terrorists, the Air Warriors fought back by returning fire. In the process, five IAF personnel received bullet injuries, and were evacuated to the nearest military hospital for immediate medical attention. One Air Warrior succumbed to his…

— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) May 4, 2024

The IAF further stated that the affected vehicles were safely contained within the airbase premises near Shahsitar.

#WATCH | J&K: Visuals of tight security checking by Indian Army personnel at Jammu-Poonch highway.

An Indian Air Force vehicle convoy was attacked by terrorists in the Poonch district.

One of the five Indian Air Force soldiers injured in the terrorist attack has passed away in… pic.twitter.com/a5QQ7xvU1y

— ANI (@ANI) May 4, 2024

One of the five Indian Air Force soldiers injured in the terrorist attack has passed away in hospital during treatment. One more soldier is critical and undergoing treatment while the remaining three are stable: Security Force officials

Congress Leaders Condemn Attack

जम्मू कश्मीर के पुंछ में हमारी सेना के काफिले पर कायराना और दुस्साहसी आतंकी हमला बहुत ही शर्मनाक है, दुखद है।

शहीद जवान को मैं अपनी विनम्र श्रद्धांजलि अर्पित करता हूं और उनके शोकसंतप्त परिजनों को संवेदनाएं व्यक्त करता हूं। हमले में घायल जवानों के जल्द से जल्द स्वस्थ होने की आशा…

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) May 4, 2024

“In Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir, the cowardly and audacious terrorist attack on our army convoy is very shameful and tragic,” said Rahul Gandhi.

“I offer my humble tribute to the martyred soldier and express condolences to their grieving families. I hope for the speedy recovery of the injured soldiers from the attack,” Rahul Gandhi said this in a tweet in Hindi.

Deeply pained by the cowardly terror attack on the IAF vehicle in Poonch, Jammu & Kashmir.

We strongly and unequivocally condemn this dastardly terror attack and join the nation in standing together against terrorism.

Our deepest condolences to the family of the brave air…

— Mallikarjun Kharge (@kharge) May 4, 2024

“Deeply pained by the cowardly terror attack on the IAF vehicle in Poonch, Jammu & Kashmir. We strongly and unequivocally condemn this dastardly terror attack and join the nation in standing together against terrorism. Our deepest condolences to the family of the brave air warrior who made the supreme sacrifice. We hope that the injured air warriors recover at the earliest and earnestly pray for their well-being. India is united for our soldiers,” wrote Kharge.

Rajnath Singh meets families of three civilians killed in Poonch

December 27, 2023, 5:40 pm

The relatives of three civilians who died close to the scene of an anti-terrorist operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district were met by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday. On Thursday of last week, heavily armed terrorists ambushed two Army vehicles near Thanamandi in the Rajouri sector, resulting in the deaths of four Army personnel and the injuries of three others. Manoj Singh, the lieutenant governor of Jammu and Kashmir, accompanied Rajnath Singh. Noor Mohammad, the victim’s brother, claimed that Rajnath Singh had promised them justice after they had a meeting with the minister of defense.

Additional forces deployed in Poonch as search for terrorists continues in Rajouri

December 25, 2023, 12:02 pm

A search operation was underway in the wooded area of Dera ki Gali on Monday, where two Army vehicles were ambushed by heavily armed terrorists from across the border last week. Meanwhile, more security guards were stationed in the Poonch district. Authorities reported that more troops had also been sent to the Poonch district’s Bafliaz area. The last week’s ambush attack on Thursday resulted in the deaths of four Army personnel and three injuries. The four fallen soldiers, Naik Birender Singh, Rifleman Gautam Kumar, Naik Karan Kumar, and Rifleman Chandan Kumar, received a moving send-off at a wreath-laying ceremony in Rajouri on Sunday.

The Indian Army said on Saturday that it was conducting an inquiry into the deaths of three civilians in the Poonch-Rajouri sector, where terrorists carried out the ambush attack on the forces.
Taking to X, the Indian Army posted, “Search operations by the security forces are continuing in the area of operations after the incident of December 21. Reports have been received regarding three civilian deaths in the area. The matter is under investigation.”

The Indian Army also stated in its post that it is “committed to extending full support and cooperation in the conduct of investigations.” At 3:45 p.m. on Thursday, terrorists opened fire on two army vehicles that were traveling through Dera Ki Gali in the Poonch area of Rajouri. This resulted in a violent confrontation. Terrorists opened fire on two Army vehicles carrying troops to the operational site at approximately 3:45 p.m. on December 21. The soldiers instantly returned fire, according to an Army official.

Mobile Internet Shut Down in Poonch, Rajouri During Anti-Terror Operation in J&K

December 23, 2023, 12:12 pm

In response to the recent ambush on two Army vehicles that claimed the lives of five soldiers, mobile Internet services were abruptly suspended in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch and Rajouri districts on Saturday. The move comes as security forces intensify efforts to track down terrorists linked to the attack, which was followed by the mysterious deaths of three individuals allegedly detained by the Army for questioning.

The suspension of mobile Internet services in the twin border districts is a precautionary measure aimed at curbing the spread of rumours and preventing any potential law and order issues. The decision was prompted by widespread resentment among the public, fueled by videos circulating online purporting to show the torture of suspects.

While official information on the ground situation remains limited, sources indicate that both Army and civil authorities are closely monitoring developments. The deployment of additional police and paramilitary personnel in sensitive areas of Poonch and Rajouri aims to maintain peace during this tense period.

The ambush, carried out by three to four heavily armed terrorists at Dhatyar Morh between Dhera Ki Gali and Bufliaz, resulted in the deaths of five soldiers and injuries to two others. After the attack, the terrorists reportedly mutilated the bodies of at least two soldiers and seized their weapons.

In response to the incident, a massive search operation was launched in densely forested areas, including nearby Thanamandi in Rajouri. Despite efforts, there has been no fresh contact with the fleeing terrorists as of now.

Adding to the complexity of the situation, three individuals, initially detained by the Army for questioning in connection with the attack, died mysteriously on Friday. The deceased were identified as Safeer Hussain (43), Mohd Showket (27), and Shabir Ahmad (32) of Topa Peer village in Bufliaz. The cause of their deaths is currently under investigation, with their bodies handed over to their families for last rites. Authorities continue to work on unravelling the circumstances surrounding both the ambush and the subsequent deaths.

UBT Sena’s Sanjay Raut Calls Poonch Terror Attack a ‘Repeat of Pulwama,’ Opposition Criticizes

December 22, 2023, 12:30 pm

As security forces intensify cordon and search operations in Poonch after Thursday’s terror attack on an Army convoy, opposition parties are raising questions and politicizing the tragic incident.

Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut drew parallels with the 2019 Pulwama terror attack, expressing concern over the government’s response. Raut questioned the motives of the central government and accused them of potential political exploitation. He said, “The government is sleeping. Do you (BJP) again want to do politics on the sacrifice by our jawans? If we ask questions about the Poonch incident, then they will throw us out of Delhi or the country.”

Raut further highlighted the intrusion into Parliament, criticizing the government’s lack of awareness. He raised serious concerns about the recent escalation in soldier casualties and emphasized the need for accountability.

Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Farooq Abdullah, echoed the sentiment that terrorism persists in the Union Territory. Following the terrorist attack in Rajouri, Abdullah stated, “…Even today there is terrorism in J&K, there has just been an incident. Terrorism has not ended.” He criticized the central government’s focus on promoting tourism, emphasizing the urgent need for addressing security issues.

The attack on two military vehicles in the Thanamandi area of Rajouri resulted in the tragic loss of four Army personnel and injuries to three others. Security has been heightened along the Jammu-Rajouri-Poonch highway in response to the incident.

Opposition leaders are seizing on the Poonch attack to question the government’s handling of security challenges in the region. The tragic event is now becoming a focal point for political discourse, with concerns raised about the broader implications for national security and the need for a comprehensive strategy to counteract terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir.

Army foils infiltration bid in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch

August 7, 2023, 10:14 am

In the early hours of Monday, an attempt at infiltration was thwarted along the Line of Control (LoC) in the general vicinity of Degwar Terwan in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch. They claimed that a search operation was in progress nearby. According to PRO (Defence) Jammu Lt Col Suneel Bartwal, contact was made by ambush in the Garhi Battalion, Poonch, around 2:00 am. Two people were seen crossing the line of control in the general area of Degwar Terva.

In the firefight one terrorist seen dropping, second seen moving towards Pintu Nala. Search operation is underway in the area, he added.
More details are awaited.

Grenade found near former MLA Chaudhary Akram in Poonch

January 26, 2023, 6:48 pm

The grenade was found near the house of former MLA Chaudhary Akram in the Surankot area of Poonch. Meanwhile, forces rushed to the spot. Earlier also his house was attacked by a suspected terrorist.

Security forces bust major terror hideout in Poonch

January 25, 2023, 4:41 pm

Ahead of Republic Day celebrations, security forces bust a major terror hideout in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir. In the major break out two AK 47 rifles, 3 AK 47 magazines, and 35 rounds of ammunition were recovered.

Jammu and Kashmir police tighten security in Poonch

January 20, 2023, 1:18 pm

Ahead of Republic Day celebrations on 26 January, security has been tightened in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch on Friday. Meanwhile, to maintain the safety and security of the area, security officials have deployed forces in every corner.

Speaking to the media Ahjaz, a police officer said, “Since January 26 is ahead, we have tightened the security in the area. We have deployed forces so that no corner is left untouched.”

“After what happened in Rajouri, the security and safety of the citizens have become important. Therefore, we are on our toes for the protection of our people and those coming here,” the official stated.

Moreover, the security forces further said that to ensure the security of the citizens, they conduct a yearly drill in the area.

“We often undertake surprise visits to some areas we find suspicious, we check cars and other vehicles. On a personal level as well, we undertake checkings so that we are assured that there is nothing to be concerned about,” Ahjaz stated.

However, for the protection of the people, the Indian Army and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) have been deployed in the area.

“We have a lot of help to ensure safety and security. We want to avoid any lapse in security,” stated the official.

Jammu and Kashmir police tighten security in Poonch

January 20, 2023, 1:12 pm

Ahead of Republic Day celebrations on 26 January, security has been tightened in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch on Friday. Meanwhile, to maintain the safety and security of the area security officials have deployed forces in every corner.

CRPF jawans arrive in Rajouri’s Upper Dangri village

January 5, 2023, 6:00 pm

Following the killing of 6 civilians in a terror attack on 1 January in Upper Dangri village in Jammu and Kashmir’s Rajouri the Central Reserve Police Force jawans have arrived for deployment.

Earlier on 1 January to boost security in the area deployment of forces was demanded by the Dangri village.

Meanwhile, in the wake of recent killings of civilians in two fresh terror attacks, an additional 18 companies have been deployed by the Home Ministry.

Dheeraj Sharma Sarpanch of the Upper Dangri village thanked Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha and the Centre for the quick action and also for deploying the forces.

“We demanded security and LG said our security-related demands would be met within 7 days. We thank LG and Centre for their quick action. There was an atmosphere of fear in our village. The moral of the villagers would boost with the deployment of the companies,” Sharma said.

“The police have become more active after this incident. The first company of CRPF has come,” Sharma stated.

Earlier on Wednesday, the Home Ministry issued an order for the deployment of 18 CRPF companies – approximately 1,800 personnel in the Poonch and Rajouri districts.

Moreover, on Sunday gunmen fired indiscriminately on three houses of Hindu residents and four villagers lost their lives.

While staging a protest people were seen raising slogans against police and district administration demanding that J-K Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha listen to their demands.

After a suspected Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast in Rajouri’s Upper Dangri village on Monday, a child was killed and five others injured.

In the area, ADGP Mukesh Singh cautioned people as another suspected IED was spotted which is about eight kilometers from Rajouri town.

Since Sunday evening in the two terror attacks by the terrorists, a dozen people were reportedly injured and are being treated in Jammu hospital.

However, Manoj Sinha Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir has announced an ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh and a government job for the people who died in the firing incident.

“An ex-gratia of Rs 10 lakh and a government job would be given to the next of kin of each of those civilians martyred in the dastardly attack. Seriously injured would be given Rs.1 lakh. Officials have been directed to ensure the best treatment to injured,” the Office of LG J-K said in a statement.

Furthermore, a team from National Investigation Agency (NIA) also visited the village.

Indian Army recovers suspected bag in Poonch

December 30, 2022, 12:16 pm

Indian Army has recovered a bag from the forward area of Khadi Karmada of the Poonch Line of Control. After which the Army opened fire after noticing suspected movement. However, a search operation is underway.

Army man kills in accidental fire in J&K’s Poonch

November 9, 2022, 1:40 pm

Indian Army soldier Eswaran R, 27, of Gudalur village of Tamil Nadu died in an “accidental discharge of fire from his own weapon” in the Mankote sector along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Poonch district on Tuesday, according to army officials.

The soldier was presently posted with 37 Rashtriya Rifles (RR). He received a serious bullet wound after his service rifle went off accidentally,” said a police officer.

Eswaran was transferred to a sub-district hospital in Mendhar but the doctors declared him brought dead.

The army received his body following a post-mortem.

The army has formed a court of inquiry in addition to the police starting inquest proceedings under section 174 of the CR PC.

Multiple bore gunshots reported in Poonch district, probe underway

August 15, 2022, 1:27 pm

Multiple bore gunshots were reported on Monday in the Balakot sector of Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir.

Meanwhile, the police officials said from a 12-bore gun the shots were fired.

The police officials rushed to the spot where the incident took place. Later the car was examined and surrounding areas that were damaged in the firing.

“It is possible that the 12 bore shots were aimed at wild animals engaged in destroying maize crop. The site of the incident is still under investigation,” said Poonch Police.

However further investigations into the matter are underway.

Plot to carry terror strikes, stoke communal tension in J&K foiled

December 28, 2020, 3:24 am

In a major success, Jammu and Kashmir Police and Indian Army’s counter-insurgency Rashtriya Rifles have busted a terror module in Poonch and foiled a major terrorist plot to carry out attacks on religious places, police said on Sunday. Police said three militant associates have been arrested so far and six grenades have been recovered from their possession.

Senior Superintendent of Police, Poonch, Ramesh Angral said that a joint team of Jammu and Kashmir Police and its Special Operation Group along with Rashtriya Rifles’ Romeo Force’s 49th Battalion set up a checkpoint in the intervening night of Saturday and Sunday at Basooni and intercepted a vehicle in which Mustafa Khan, a resident of Galuta Harni, was travelling. He was apprehended and questioned over his suspicious movement. “During questioning, the accused broke down and confessed his involvement in militant related activities and on his confession, two more militant associates were apprehended — Mohd Yaseen, son of Walayat Khan and Rayees Ahmed, son of Mohammad Iqbal, both resident of Dabbi Balakote,” police said. On questioning the trio, vital clues were developed and searches were conducted in the house of Mustafa Khan from where six grenades were recovered.

The SSP also said that during investigation, it came to fore that the arrested persons were in regular contact with the handlers in Pakistan who were instructing them to carry out terror strikes.

“It has also come to fore that the accused were planning to carry out strike at religious places in Poonch which was an attempt to trigger communal tension in the region. Some videos regarding tactics of grenade lobbing were also found in the mobile phones of accused,” police said. The SSP said that it is a major success for security forces as a big plot of terrorist strikes and inciting communal violence has been averted in Poonch.

WITH IANS INPUTS