||Black and White Digital News ||

||Parvinder Singh June 12, 2024||

Reasi: As dawn breaks on the second day of an intense manhunt, the picturesque yet perilous terrains of Reasi are under siege by security forces. The combing operation, which commenced after a deadly attack on a pilgrim bus on Sunday, continues unabated with an unwavering determination to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The tragic incident unfolded when terrorists opened fire on a 53-seater bus transporting pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Delhi. The bus was en route from the revered Shiv Khori temple to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. Amidst the chaos and gunfire, the bus careened off the road, plunging into a deep gorge near Teryath village in the Poni area, leaving nine pilgrims dead and several others injured.

Coordinated Security Efforts in Action…

In response to the attack, an extensive combing operation has been launched in the Treyath forest area, the epicenter of the tragic event. The search teams, comprising elite units from the Army, Jammu & Kashmir Police, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), have been bolstered by the inclusion of quadcopters and sniffer dogs. A total of 11 teams are scouring the area, operating under a multi-directional cordon that envelops the Poni-Treyath belt.

Security forces have sounded a high alert across the Jammu and Rajouri districts, heightening checking and frisking procedures in a bid to prevent any further attacks. Over 20 individuals have been detained for questioning as the hunt for the terrorists intensifies.

Leads and Speculations…

Udhampur-Reasi Range Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Rayees Mohammad Bhat has indicated that security forces have obtained significant leads. “The search operation is ongoing in and around the area where the attack took place, with 11 teams working on the ground,” Bhat stated, highlighting the collaborative efforts of the police, Army, and CRPF. He also mentioned that these forces are pursuing multiple leads on two different axes to corner and neutralize the fleeing terrorists.

Based on testimonies from the injured survivors, authorities have not ruled out the involvement of a fourth accomplice who may have served as a lookout during the attack. This possibility has further complicated the search efforts, requiring meticulous scrutiny and cross-verification of all available intelligence.

Suspicions of Cross-Border Involvement…

Sources within the security establishment have pointed fingers at Pakistan-based terrorists, suspected of orchestrating the attack under the guidance of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). There are indications that the assault was executed by four terrorists, including a local overground worker, all acting under the command of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) leader Abu Hamza.

The mountainous terrains of Rajouri and Reasi, known for their rugged and inaccessible topography, are believed to be the hideouts of the terrorists. This has prompted security forces to intensify combing operations in these regions, leaving no stone unturned in their pursuit.

Community on Edge…

The aftermath of the attack has left the local communities in a state of heightened anxiety and vigilance. The tragic loss of innocent lives and the lurking threat of further violence have cast a shadow over the normally serene pilgrim routes.

As security forces press on with their search, the resilience of the local population and the unyielding resolve of the security personnel shine as beacons of hope in these dark times. The combing operation in Reasi is not just a tactical maneuver but a testament to the enduring spirit to restore peace and safety in the region.

Future Aspect…

As the combing operation in Reasi enters its second day, the combined might of the Army, J&K Police, and CRPF remains laser-focused on apprehending the terrorists responsible for the heinous attack. With every passing hour, the net tightens, and the promise of justice for the fallen pilgrims looms ever closer.

Exceptional Leadership…

DGP R.R. Swain and ADGP Anand Jain have demonstrated exceptional leadership by personally overseeing the search operations at the base. Their direct involvement underscores their commitment to operational excellence and safety. Their proactive approach and dedication have been instrumental in guiding the teams effectively and ensuring the mission’s success.