By Krishika Rathod
A top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist along with another militant was killed in an encounter with security forces in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The gunfight also resulted in injuries to three Army personnel who are being treated for their wounds.
The slain senior militant was identified as Rehman Bhai, a top commander of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba group. His body was recovered from the Guddar forest area by the security forces. According to officials, the operation was launched after the Jammu and Kashmir Police provided specific intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists in the area. Based on this information, a joint search and cordon operation was initiated by the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
The Chinar Corps of the Indian Army released a statement saying that the troops noticed suspicious activity in the area and challenged the individuals. However, the terrorists opened fire immediately, which led to a fierce exchange of gunfire between both sides. During this encounter, one terrorist was killed and a junior commissioned officer sustained injuries. The operation is still ongoing as the security forces continue to comb the area for other militants.
Security officials have stated that two to three more terrorists might still be hiding in the forests of Kulgam. Additional reinforcements have been sent to the location to strengthen the ongoing operation and ensure the safety of the personnel involved.
In a separate development, the Border Security Force (BSF) arrested a Pakistani intruder in Jammu. The incident took place late Sunday night around 9 p.m. when BSF personnel observed suspicious movement near the International Border at Tehsil Suchetgarh in Jammu. The Pakistani national was seen crossing the border fence aggressively. Despite repeated warnings by the troops to stop, he continued moving toward the fence, forcing the soldiers to open fire and detain him immediately.
Upon being interrogated, the intruder revealed his identity as Siraaj Khan, son of Zahid Khan, from Village 27 Chak, Tehsil Bhalwal, District Sargodha, Punjab, Pakistan. During a search, Pakistani currency was found on him. He has been handed over to local police authorities, and a formal protest is being filed with the counterpart forces.