On May 4, 2024, a tragic incident unfolded in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. An Indian Air Force (IAF) convoy came under attack by terrorists in the evening. The assault, which took place near Sanai Top in the Surankote area, resulted in the loss of one IAF personnel’s life and injuries to several others.
Following the attack, security forces in India swiftly launched a cordon and search operation (CISO) in the vicinity. This large-scale operation involves the Rashtriya Rifles unit, along with Indian Army and police personnel, working collaboratively to apprehend the attackers and restore peace in the region.
Details of the Attack and Search Operation
Reports suggest that the terrorists ambushed the IAF convoy, firing heavily for around 15 minutes. Investigators believe a group of four militants were involved, using a combination of US-made M4 rifles and AK-47 assault rifles. This attack marks a worrying escalation of violence in the region, particularly in light of recent terrorist incidents in Rajouri, another district bordering Poonch.
Heightened Security Measures and Investigations
In response to the attack, security has been significantly beefed up around the Sanai area near Jarran Wali Gali (JWG) Poonch in Surankot. Security forces are conducting thorough checks on every vehicle passing through the area. Additionally, aerial surveillance has been deployed using helicopters to scan the mountainous terrain, including Shahsitar, Lassana Top, Sanai Top, Gursai, Sheendhara Top, and adjoining areas. This comprehensive approach aims to track down the terrorists’ movements and prevent further attacks.
Authorities are determined to identify and apprehend the perpetrators responsible for this heinous act. Investigations are ongoing, and officials have released pictures of two suspected Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorists believed to be involved. A cash reward of ₹10 lakh has also been announced for information leading to their arrest.
Poonch: A Region Facing Security Challenges
The border district of Poonch, along with adjoining Rajouri, has witnessed a surge in terrorist activity in recent years. The latest attack follows the killing of a government employee, Mohd Razaq, in Rajouri’s Kunda Top on April 22, and village defence guard Mohd Sharief in Udhampur’s Basantgarh area on April 28. These incidents highlight the ongoing security challenges faced by the region.
The Importance of Maintaining Peace and Stability
The Indian government is committed to ensuring the safety and security of its citizens in Jammu and Kashmir. The ongoing search operation in Poonch is a crucial step towards achieving this goal. By apprehending the terrorists responsible for the attack, authorities can send a strong message of deterrence and prevent further violence. Additionally, increased security measures and cooperation between different security forces are essential to maintain peace and stability in the region.
The attack on the IAF convoy in Poonch serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security threats in Jammu and Kashmir. However, the swift response by security forces demonstrates their unwavering commitment to protecting the region. The ongoing search operation is a positive development, and it is hoped that the perpetrators will be brought to justice soon.