SRINAGAR: A CRPF head constable and two constables were wounded when terrorists fired at a patrol in south Kashmir’s Akhran area of Kulgam district around 2pm Wednesday, ending a long lull in attacks on security forces in the valley. Constable Santosh Chandru, who suffered bullet wounds to his abdomen and spine, was airlifted to Army’s 92 Base Hospital in Srinagar in a critical condition. Constable Rakesh Dass and head constable Somveer Singh were stable.The attack on personnel of 46 CRPF battalion was the third major terrorist strike in Kashmir this year, but the first targeting security forces in a long time. The attackers escaped after the shooting.CCTV footage showed a CRPF trooper running for cover as gunfire erupted near a row of closed shops around 2.06pm. A colleague appeared from the left and moved towards the direction of gunfire. The first returned with his weapon and joined him. Another trooper in full combat gear was seen climbing onto a rooftop around 2.07pm. A minute later, a voice, apparently that of a wounded man outside the frame, could be heard saying:…
3 CRPF men wounded as terrorists strike patrol in south Kashmir
In short
Assailants armed with suspected high-calibre weapons such as AK-47s fired upon a 46 CRPF battalion patrol in Kulgam district's Akhran area before fleeing. The incident occurred while Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha was visiting the district for a cultural festival at a degree college. Joint forces comprising the Army, CRPF, and Jammu and Kashmir Police have since placed the region on high alert while executing a cordon-and-search operation.
Key points
- The assault shattered a prolonged period of calm regarding targeted attacks on security p…: The assault shattered a prolonged period of calm regarding targeted attacks on security personnel operating within the valley.
- Authorities deployed joint teams from the Army, CRPF, and police to conduct a large-scale…: Authorities deployed joint teams from the Army, CRPF, and police to conduct a large-scale manhunt in Kulgam.
- Regional leadership faced immediate security concerns as top dignitaries were gathered in…: Regional leadership faced immediate security concerns as top dignitaries were gathered in the district during the ambush.