SRINAGAR, DEC 23: In the aftermath of a harrowing ambush by terrorists on Indian Army vehicles that resulted in the tragic death of five brave army personnel, the Poonch region is grappling with the aftermath.
Three civilian bodies were discovered near the operation site a day after the incident, prompting swift action from the Jammu and Kashmir administration.
On Saturday, the administration confirmed that legal action had been set in motion to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding the civilian deaths.
“Medico-legal formalities were diligently conducted to establish the facts. Simultaneously, appropriate authorities initiated legal proceedings, underscoring a commitment to bring any responsible parties to justice” the government said.
In an official statement, the Jammu and Kashmir administration declared, “The death of three civilians was reported yesterday in Baffliaz of Poonch District. The medico-legal formalities were conducted, and legal action in this matter has been initiated by the appropriate authority. The government has announced compensation for each of the deceased. Further, the government has also announced compassionate appointments to the next of kin of each deceased.”
The tragic incident unfolded on Thursday when three to four heavily armed terrorists targeted an army gypsy and a truck at Dhatyar Morh, situated between Dhera Ki Gali and Bufliaz, falling under the jurisdiction of the Surankote police station in Poonch. This ambush resulted in the death of five army personnel and left two others injured.
Following the attack, a massive search operation was immediately launched in the densely forested areas, extending to nearby Thanamandi in Rajouri. However, officials confirmed no fresh contact with the fleeing militants as of now.
Adding to the complexity of the situation, three individuals met mysterious deaths on Friday.
Sources revealed that their bodies have been handed over to their families for last rites, and investigations into their deaths are ongoing.
As per the reports the deceased individuals were identified as Safeer Hussain, 43, Mohd Showket, 27, and Shabir Ahmad, 32, all residents of Topa Peer village in Bufliaz. The cause of their deaths remains unknown at this time, further deepening the concerns surrounding the unfolding events in Poonch. The community awaits answers, and the government’s assurance of compensation and legal action aims to provide some solace amid these tragic circumstances.
