Poonch, Jammu and Kashmir – April 20:
Security forces continued their intensive search efforts in the forests of Lasana in Poonch district on Sunday, marking the sixth straight day of a joint anti-militancy operation in the region.
The operation, being carried out by the Romeo Force of the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG), was launched after an exchange of fire took place between troops and suspected militants on Monday night near Lasana village, which is situated along the highway linking Poonch to Jammu. One Army personnel sustained injuries during the encounter.
Since then, heavily armed teams have been combing the densely wooded terrain. Reinforcements have been deployed, and a tight security cordon remains in place as the search expands deeper into the forested area.
Speaking on the matter Friday, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu Zone, BS Tuti, said that Poonch district has witnessed a resurgence of militancy over the past year and a half. “We’ve identified specific areas with likely militant presence. A coordinated action plan has been put into motion, and visible outcomes are expected soon,” he said.
Meanwhile, a separate incident in neighbouring Rajouri has prompted the Indian Army to launch an internal probe. Reports emerged alleging that locals were manhandled by Army personnel during a search operation conducted on the basis of intelligence inputs about militant movement.
A statement from the Defence PRO, Jammu, confirmed that an inquiry has been initiated and added that the search was part of routine counter-terrorism operations in the region.
Security forces remain on high alert as operations continue in both Poonch and Rajouri districts, which have seen a spike in militant activity in recent months.
