J&K: 3 Security Officers Martyred In Anantnag Encounter, 2 LeT Terrorists Trapped

The Jammu and Kashmir Police, on Thursday reported that they have encircled two Lashkar-e-Toiba (Let) terrorists, including Uzair Khan, responsible for the killing of three security officers in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district.

In a tragic incident, a fierce gunfight with terrorists in the Kokernag area of Anantnag district in Kashmir led to the loss of an army colonel, a major, and a senior police official. Colonel Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak, and Deputy Superintendent of Jammu and Kashmir Police Humayun Bhat were among the casualties.

Uzair Ahmad Khan (28) has been an active member of Let since July 2022.

The Kashmir Zone Police paid tribute to the bravery of the fallen officers, stating, "In solemn tribute to the unwavering valor of Col Manpreet Singh, Major Ashish Dhonak & DSP Humayun Bhat, who laid down their lives leading from the front during this ongoing operation. Our forces persist with unwavering resolve as they encircle 2 LET terrorists, including Uzair Khan."

Reportedly, the bodies of the colonel and major were recovered from the encounter site. The terrorists had taken refuge in a nomad hut, and upon receiving a tip from sources, they targeted the officers and their escort. During the operation, an AK-47 rifle, utensils, clothing, and ammunition were seized from the hut, which served as the terrorists' hideout in the Gadole jungles.

The operation was meticulously planned by the Commanding Officer (CO), company commander, and Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), catching the terrorists off guard as they approached the hideout from an unexpected and challenging route. The terrorists were cornered and engaged in indiscriminate firing, resulting in severe injuries to the three courageous officers. The treacherous terrain made the situation even more challenging, but the terrorists are currently trapped, and an ongoing operation is in progress to neutralize them.

The encounter happened on Wednesday morning as part of a mission to locate and apprehend terrorists believed to be hiding in the Gadole area. The operation initially commenced on Tuesday evening but was temporarily halted during the night for safety reasons. On Wednesday morning, authorities resumed their pursuit of the terrorists based on credible information regarding their concealed location. These details were shared by official sources with PTI, shedding light on the prevailing security challenges in the region.

As the joint forces' team closed in on the suspected location, the hidden terrorists initiated gunfire, sparking a confrontation.