Poonch, J&K: Joint security forces, including the Indian Army’s Romeo Force and the Special Operations Group (SOG), have continued their intensive search operation for the sixth consecutive day in the dense forests of Lasana in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district. The operation, which began on Tuesday, was launched following a gunfight between terrorists and security forces on Monday night.
The area remains cordoned off as troops carry out combing operations through the thick forest terrain. Additional reinforcements have been deployed to strengthen the ongoing search.
Officials stated that during the initial exchange of fire, terrorists opened fire on security personnel, resulting in injuries to a Romeo Force soldier near Lasana village, located along the Poonch-Jammu National Highway.
Inspector General of Police (Jammu), BS Tuti, on Friday acknowledged the persistent threat of terrorism in the region, stating, “Poonch has witnessed a resurgence in terror activity over the past 1.5 to 2 years. We have held strategy meetings with the Army and marked key areas where terrorists are believed to be present. An action plan is in motion, and results will follow soon.”
In a related development, the Indian Army has ordered an inquiry into allegations of manhandling by Army personnel during a separate search operation in Rajouri district. The incident reportedly occurred amid routine counter-terror operations based on intelligence inputs regarding terrorist movement in the area, according to a statement by the Defence PRO, Jammu.
Operations continue as the forces remain on high alert across the border district.
