Encounter in Kupwara, J&K Claims Militant’s Life, Army NCO Injured

Srinagar, July 24 2024 : An unidentified militant was killed and a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) of the Army sustained injuries during an ongoing operation in Kupwara district of Jammu and Kashmir, the Army reported on Wednesday.

The exchange of gunfire erupted in the Trumkhan forests of Kupwara on Tuesday when security forces launched a search operation based on intelligence regarding militant presence in the area.

According to Army officials, vigilant troops engaged suspicious movement, resulting in an encounter with militants. During the firefight, one militant was neutralized while an Army NCO sustained injuries.

“Acting on credible intelligence about the presence of terrorists in the general area of Kowut, Kupwara, a Joint Search Operation was launched by #IndianArmy and @JmuKmrPolice in preceding days leading up to July 23-24. On July 24, troops observed suspicious movement and promptly challenged it. In the ensuing exchange of fire, one terrorist was eliminated and an NCO sustained injuries. The operation is ongoing,” stated a post by the Army’s Srinagar-based Chinar Corps on X.

Earlier on Tuesday evening, J&K Police confirmed that security forces had established contact with terrorists near Trimukha Top, Lolab, Kupwara, and that the operation was ongoing.

The gunfight in Kupwara comes amidst a recent increase in militant activities in the Jammu region. Just yesterday, a soldier lost his life in a gunfight on the Line of Control in Poonch district while thwarting an infiltration attempt.

Since Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s third term began on June 20, the Jammu region has witnessed separate attacks resulting in the deaths of 11 security personnel and nine pilgrims.