Ahlan Kokernag Encounter Update: Injured Civilian Dies toll Mounts to three

In a tragic development, one of the two civilians injured in yesterday’s confrontation between security forces and terrorists in Ahlan Kokernag has succumbed to their injuries today, bringing the total number of fatalities to three, according to officials.

The intense gunfight unfolded in the afternoon as security forces carried out an anti-terror operation in the densely wooded area of Ahlan Gadole, a remote region within Kokernag. The police reported that the operation was initiated based on credible intelligence indicating the presence of terrorists in the area. As the forces moved deeper into the forest, they were met with gunfire from the terrorists, resulting in a protracted and fierce firefight.

During the clash, two soldiers sustained critical injuries and were promptly transported to a medical facility, where they later died from their wounds.

According to a statement from a Srinagar-based defense spokesman, credible intelligence received on August 5, 2024, had indicated that the terrorists, who had been responsible for recent attacks in the Doda region in July, had crossed into the Kapran Garol area of South Kashmir. Following this, the Rashtriya Rifles and J&K Police initiated relentless tracking and precise operations targeting these terrorists.

On the night of August 9-10, 2024, security forces launched operations in the eastern part of Kapran, where the terrorists were believed to be hiding. On August 10, at around 1400 hours, suspicious movement in the area prompted an immediate response. However, the terrorists responded with indiscriminate and reckless firing, resulting in injuries to two Army personnel and two civilians nearby.

The defense spokesman noted that the backgrounds of the injured civilians are being investigated. He also described the challenging terrain, which includes high altitudes, dense undergrowth, large boulders, and watercourses, as a significant obstacle to the operations. Despite these difficulties, security forces are actively pursuing the terrorists and are expected to continue their efforts through the night.