VDC member injured in exchange of fire with terrorists in Udhampur

Srinagar, Apr 28: A village defence guard (VDG) was injured in a firing incident in a remote village in Udhampur district, Officials said Sunday.

The firing was reported from Panara village of Basantgarh when a patrolling party of VDGs confronted some suspiciously moving persons, believed to be terrorists, in a forest area.

Reports said around 7.30 am, patrolling party consisting of a VDC members and SPO’s of Police-post Sang, Basantgarh noticed some suspicious activity Dhau area of Seri Gallah-Basantgarh, Udhampur. Unknown number of terrorists hiding in a Dhok , who opened fire on the patrolling party.

Reportedly, a VDC member namely Mohd Sharief resident of  Khaned received gunshot wound injuries. However, terrorists have likely fled from the area after the incident, sources said

An official said that after receipt of inputs regarding movement of suspicious individuals late last evening, J&K Police activated the security grid in Basantgarh police station limits of Udhampur district.

He said today morning, party of Police Picket Sang carrying along with them VDG members proceeded towards Chochru Gala heights where around 0745 hrs a face off ensued between Police party and a group of hiding terrorists. One VDG member of JKP was injured in the initial exchange of fire.

He also said that SOG along with Army & CRPF parties had staged forward and are proceeding to cordon the area.

Media and civilians are requested not to run unofficial unverified reports, the official added.