Srinagar: The Indian Army has intensified its search operations in Poonch and launched a manhunt to track all the three terrorists who were involved in the surprise attack on the Indian Army convoy on December 21, that had left four jawans martyred. After spotting fresh blood trails in Dera Ki Gali area, the Army is using sniffer dogs to hunt down the terrorists.

Army orders probe, ensures support to Aam Aawam

Indian Army, in its statement, said that search operations by the Security Forces are continuing in operations after the attack. Reports have been received regarding the death of three civilians in the area. The matter is under investigation. The Army further added that the establishment is “extending full support and cooperation in the conduct of investigations”.

After three civilians were found dead near the attack site in Poonch district's Baffliaz, Divisional Commissioner Jammu Ramesh Kumar said, “The medico legal formalities were conducted and legal action in this matter has been initiated by the appropriate authority. Government has announced compensation for each of the deceased. Government has also announced compassionate appointments to the next of kin of each deceased”.

33 brave hearts martyred since October 2021

Over the span of last 30 months, the regions of Rajouri and Poonch in Jammu have been witnessing a series of devastating terror attacks targeting the Indian Army. At least 33 soldiers have been martyred since 2021. On October 11, 2021, the Rashtriya Rifles Unit came under heavy attack in Poonch. Five army personnel, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were left martyred. The Rashtriya Rifles Unit have been targeted repeatedly in 2021, 2022 and 2023 in Rajouri.

On May 5, 2023, the Special Forces Unit PARA was attacked in Rajouri's Kandi, and on November 22, 2023, in Bajimaal, Rajouri, affecting both the Rashtriya Rifles and Special Forces Units.