Forces, terrorists exchange gunfire in Poonch’s Lassana; soldier injured

Rajouri, Apr 15: A soldier of Army’s Rashtriya Rifles battalion sustained injuries in an encounter that broke out in Lassana village of Poonch on Monday late evening. Terrorists and security forces personnel exchanged gunfire in the area during the initial moments, after which a massive anti-terror operation is going on.

As per officials, over some specific information regarding suspicious movement and presence of terrorists in Lassana Top and Dundak areas of Poonch, a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) was launched by forces on Monday evening. Officials further stated that soon after the Cordon was laid by forces and searches were to be launched, terrorists hiding in thick vegetation fired upon army personnel causing injuries to a personnel. The fire by terrorists was effectively retaliated, leading to exchange of fire between both the sides that continued till midnight hours. “The injured army personnel was shifted to an army hospital where he is under treatment,” said officials.

They further said that although no fresh exchange of firing has been reported from the area since Tuesday morning, a massive anti-terror operation is going on. “Contact was established with terrorists during a joint operation with J&K Police at Lasana, Surankote last night.” Indian Army said in its official statement. Additional troops have been inducted, and search operations are ongoing to prevent the terrorists from escaping, the Army statement further reads.