Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kashmir Zone, Vidhi Kumar Birdi, stated on Sunday that a massive search operation is ongoing in the Ahlan forest area of Kokernag, Anantnag, to track down the terrorists. The IGP also mentioned that the role of civilians found near the terrorists is under investigation.
Speaking to reporters at the encounter site, IGP Birdi noted that the site is connected to the borders of Doda, with an estimated three to four terrorists believed to be in the area. When questioned about a civilian who was injured and later succumbed to injuries, the IGP emphasized that the circumstances surrounding the civilian’s presence near the terrorists are being closely examined.
“We are investigating the role of civilians as to what they were doing close to the terrorists. We will find out the role of civilians if any,” the IGP stated.
He also confirmed the deaths of two soldiers and a civilian, adding that another injured civilian is currently receiving medical treatment.
