A deadly encounter in the Desa forests of Jammu and Kashmir’s Doda district has resulted in the loss of four Indian Army personnel, including a Major-rank officer. The incident occurred on Monday night when terrorists ambushed a security forces party conducting searches in the area.
Reports indicate that gunfire was first heard around 7:45 p.m. between Uddan Bagi and Dheri Goth in Doda district. The initial exchange of fire lasted for approximately 30 minutes, with no subsequent shots from the terrorists’ side.
Reportedly, the terrorist group may be larger than initially assessed, possibly numbering six to eight individuals, including foreign operatives. In response, the military has mobilized additional units, including the 26 RR and 10 RR, along with special forces teams. Drones and helicopters have been deployed to aid in the ongoing search operation.
The Nagrota-based White Knight Corps confirmed the engagement with terrorists, reporting a heavy firefight that began around 9 PM. While initially reporting injuries to personnel, they did not provide specific details.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has been briefed on the situation by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi. The minister’s office stated that Singh was apprised of the ground situation and ongoing counter-terrorist operations in Doda.
Earlier on July 9, five Army personnel were killed and six others injured when terrorists attacked a military convoy in the remote Machedi area of J&K’s Kathua district.
In light of recent terror incidents and reports of terrorist movement in the Jammu division, police and security forces have initiated extensive joint combing and search operations across the region.