Security forces have launched a manhunt in South Kashmir after gunmen opened fire on a security checkpoint.
Three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were injured on Wednesday afternoon when gunmen opened fire on a security checkpoint in the Akhran area near Mir Bazar, Kulgam district. The attack occurred at approximately 2:15 pm, targeting the 46th Battalion at a naka. According to The Indian Express, the assailants used AK-47 rifles to fire on the personnel before fleeing the scene.
The injured, identified as Head Constable Somveer and Constables Santano and Rakesh Das, were taken to the Government Medical College in Anantnag. One soldier sustained bullet wounds to his abdomen and spine and underwent surgery, while the others suffered injuries to their arms and legs. They were later moved to the Army's 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar.
A J&K Police officer stated that preliminary investigations suggest at least three terrorists were involved, including two who appear to be foreign nationals. Investigators are reviewing CCTV footage and examining the possibility of a Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) module being responsible. Security agencies are also questioning three suspected overground workers regarding potential logistical assistance.
The incident took place while Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was in Kulgam to inaugurate a festival at Government Degree College. Security forces have cordoned off the area and are conducting a search operation to locate the attackers, who reportedly used the cover of trees and a marshy patch to escape.
This marks the third terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir since July. Earlier in the month, a police head constable was killed in Anantnag and two workers were killed in Killam village.
