Pakistani terrorists ambush army truck in Kathua, killing five and injuring several others.
In Short:
- Attack Details: Terrorists fired and threw grenades at an army truck.
- Casualties: Five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed.
- Perpetrators: Pakistani terrorists with possible local support.
- Response: Strong condemnation and vows of retaliation from Indian authorities.
On Monday, Pakistani terrorists ambushed an army truck in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua, resulting in the deaths of five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO). The attack occurred around 3.30 pm near Badnota village in Lohai Malhar, approximately 150 km from Kathua town.
The terrorists used advanced weapons and grenades to maximize casualties. The ambush was well-planned, suggesting that the terrorists conducted prior reconnaissance with the help of local supporters. Five other soldiers were injured and are currently hospitalized.
The Indian defense ministry condemned the attack, promising that the soldiers' sacrifice "will not go unavenged." President Droupadi Murmu called for "firm counter-measures" against the "cowardly act."
Statements:
President Droupadi Murmu:
"The attack on army personnel in Kathua by terrorists is a cowardly act that deserves firm counter-measures. My sympathies are with the families of the bravehearts who laid down their lives. I pray for the speedy recovery of those injured."
Defense Minister Rajnath Singh:
"I am deeply anguished at the loss of five brave soldiers in Kathua. My deepest condolences to the bereaved families. The nation stands firm with them in this difficult time. Our soldiers are determined to usher in peace and order in the region."
Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition:
"These cowardly attacks on our army are highly condemnable. The solution to these relentless terror attacks will come from strong action, not hollow speeches and false promises. We stand firmly with the country in this hour of grief."
Attack Details:
The terrorists targeted the slow-moving army truck due to the rough terrain near Badnota village, where vehicles cannot exceed 10-15 km/h. They lobbed grenades and opened fire, killing the driver first, similar to previous attacks. Initial investigations revealed that local guides provided reconnaissance, food, and shelter to the terrorists.
Casualties:
The soldiers killed in the attack were JCO Naib Subedar Anant Singh, Head Constable Jamal Singh, Rifleman Anuj Singh, Rifleman Asarsh Singh, and Naik Vinod Kumar. The injured soldiers are Head Constables Arvind Singh, Sujhan Singh, and Gagandeep Singh, Rifleman Kartik, and Naik Sagar Singh.
Ongoing Operations:
A massive search operation is underway in Kathua to locate the attackers, who are believed to have fled to nearby forests. The hilly terrain, dense vegetation, and fog are major obstacles in the search efforts.
Political Reactions:
The terror attack, the fifth in the Jammu region in a month, has drawn widespread condemnation. Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge and former chief ministers Omar Abdullah, Mehbooba Mufti, and Ghulam Nabi Azad expressed their condolences and concern over the security situation in the region.