Militants Evade Security Forces After Deadly Attack in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda District

News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/17th July 2024

Militants, believed to be responsible for the killing of four Indian Army personnel in Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district on Monday night, engaged in a brief exchange of fire with security forces early Wednesday in a forested area of the district.

According to sources, the confrontation occurred around 1 am when militants opened fire on search parties in the Bhatta Dessa forests of Doda. The security forces retaliated, leading to a brief exchange of fire before the militants fled. During their escape, they encountered a Village Defence Group (VDG), resulting in another short exchange of fire before the militants retreated to higher ground.

Officials reported that extensive search operations by security forces, Jammu Kashmir Police, and Central Armed Police Force personnel are currently underway in the area. The militants had previously attacked a joint search party of Army and police personnel in the forest area on Monday night, resulting in the death of a Captain among four soldiers. It is believed that this group is the same that had fled after attacking security forces and police in the Sezan forests of Doda district on the evening of July 9.

The security forces and Jammu and Kashmir Police have been conducting a series of joint and coordinated operations to eliminate militants who they believe have infiltrated from across the border and are now moving through the upper reaches of Udhampur, Doda, and Kishtwar districts.

Searches in the Doda forests have been ongoing since terrorists attacked a patrol party, killing a Special Police Officer (SPO) on April 28 in Udhampur’s Basantgarh area, which borders Bhaderwah’s Seij Dhar area. The persistent efforts by security forces aim to locate and neutralize these militants, who have been posing a significant threat to the region’s stability.

The situation remains tense as security forces continue their search operations, determined to track down the militants and ensure the safety of the area. The repeated encounters highlight the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, where militant activity continues to disrupt peace and security. The collaborative efforts of the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and Central Armed Police Force personnel underscore the commitment to maintaining law and order in the region, despite the dangers posed by these militant groups.

As operations progress, the authorities are focusing on intelligence gathering and strategic planning to prevent further attacks and apprehend the militants. The continued vigilance and coordinated actions of the security forces are crucial in addressing the threat and restoring peace in the affected areas.

In light of these recent events, the security forces have intensified their efforts, employing advanced surveillance and reconnaissance techniques to track the movements of the militants. The resilience and bravery of the personnel involved in these operations are commendable, as they work tirelessly to protect the region from further violence. The community’s cooperation and support also play a vital role in these efforts, as local residents remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.

The commitment to safeguarding the region from militant threats remains unwavering, with the security forces and local authorities working in unison to ensure the safety and security of Jammu and Kashmir’s residents. As the search operations continue, the hope is to bring a swift and decisive end to the militant activities in the area, restoring peace and stability for all.