Soldier Missing, Two Injured In Ongoing 48-Hour Encounter In Kokernag Forests

In a prolonged encounter spanning over 48 hours within the dense forests of Kokernag in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, a soldier has been reported missing, while two others sustained injuries. The incident unfolded when a joint search operation by the army and Jammu and Kashmir Police was initiated late on Tuesday night to track down terrorists. The intense confrontation erupted during the early hours of Wednesday, resulting in the unfortunate demise of three officers, as reported by NDTV.

Among the fallen heroes are Colonel Manpreet Singh, the commanding officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles, and Major Ashish Dhonchak, along with Deputy Superintendent of Police Humayun Bhat. This brave trio lost their lives during the encounter with terrorists in the Gadole forests of Kokernag, Anantnag district. The security forces are employing cutting-edge weaponry and technology, including strike-capable Heron drones, to bolster their efforts in anti-terror operations.

The joint operation commenced on the night of September 12-13 when the Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police cordoned off Garol village in search of suspected terrorists. Following extensive reconnaissance, it was determined that the terrorists had taken refuge in the elevated terrains within the dense forest.

Colonel Manpreet Singh and Major Aashish Dhonchak, leading the search team, navigated through challenging terrain. However, around noon, they came under intense gunfire from the terrorists and responded in kind. Tragically, Colonel Singh, Major Dhonchak, and DSP Himanyun Bhat sustained gunshot wounds during the exchange and succumbed to their injuries.

In tribute to these fallen army officers, Lt. Governor Manoj Sinha paid his respects in Srinagar. The Army has undertaken a specialized operation in the unforgiving landscape of Kokernag to recover the bodies of these officers, which will be transported to their hometowns via a special aircraft.