27-Hour Operation in Jammu & Kashmir’s Akhnoor Ends with Three Terrorists Neutralized by Security Forces

On Monday, the Indian security forces launched a counter-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Akhnoor region, which concluded Tuesday morning with the neutralization of three terrorists. The terrorists were believed to have infiltrated the area from across the border and launched an attack on an Army ambulance that was part of a convoy moving near the Line of Control (LoC). This led to a swift response from security forces who launched a coordinated operation to apprehend the terrorists, who had taken refuge near the Assan temple in the village of Jogwan.

Timeline of the Encounter

The intense encounter spanned a total of 27 hours, with the initial altercation beginning at around 6:30 am on Monday. Following the first assault on the Army convoy, the terrorists fled towards nearby forests in Akhnoor, leading to a large-scale search and surveillance initiative involving multiple specialized units. By Monday evening, the operation had already claimed one terrorist, leaving two more to be apprehended by the security forces.

Intense Gunfight and Deployment of Combat Units

Early Tuesday, around 7 am, security forces resumed their push to flush out the remaining terrorists, resulting in a renewed round of gunfire. Reinforcements from the Indian Army, supported by special forces and National Security Guard (NSG) commandos, carried out a strategic operation to cordon off the area. Combat vehicles, notably four BMP-II infantry combat vehicles, were deployed to provide surveillance and support in this high-stakes engagement.

Helicopters and drones provided additional aerial surveillance, adding precision to the Army’s efforts to locate and engage with the remaining two terrorists hiding in the forested region. The coordinated efforts eventually led to the elimination of the two holed-up terrorists within a few hours, marking the successful completion of the 27-hour-long encounter.

Sacrifice of Army Dog Phantom

In a heroic display of dedication, Phantom, a Belgian Malinois and a member of the Army’s specialized canine unit, was fatally injured during the operation. Phantom, who had been trained for close combat and intelligence-gathering operations, sustained bullet injuries while drawing enemy fire, enabling his handlers to track and neutralize the terrorists. His sacrifice was honored in a statement by the White Knight Corps, which acknowledged his loyalty and valor during the operation.

Phantom's contributions to anti-terror efforts highlight the crucial role of the Army's K9 units, which are equipped to handle close-range threats, often risking their lives to protect troops in active combat zones. The White Knight Corps paid tribute to the fallen dog on social media, celebrating his courage and dedication to duty.

Security Forces’ Tactics and Equipment Utilization

The Akhnoor anti-terror operation is notable for the tactical excellence displayed by the Indian Army and police forces. Apart from the deployment of combat vehicles and aerial surveillance, the operation also involved extensive use of night vision technology to maintain round-the-clock monitoring. BMP-II vehicles, commonly used for infantry support, played a vital role in reinforcing the security perimeter and keeping the area sealed off to prevent the terrorists’ escape.

As the encounter drew to a close, the Army recovered several weapons and supplies from the scene, indicating the sophisticated preparations made by the terrorists for a sustained confrontation. The army’s efforts to neutralize the assailants and recover their gear mark a significant victory in counter-terror operations within the region.

Ongoing Threats and Series of Attacks in Jammu and Kashmir

The recent Akhnoor incident adds to a series of terror-related events in Jammu and Kashmir, which has witnessed multiple attacks in recent months. Just last week, terrorists targeted an Army vehicle in Baramulla district, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and two civilians. Similar incidents, including the tragic killing of a doctor and several laborers at a construction site in Ganderbal, underscore the persistent security challenges facing the region.

In response, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha reiterated the government’s commitment to counter-terror measures, stating that every life lost to terrorism will be avenged. Security operations, including intensified search and surveillance initiatives, remain ongoing as the Army and police work to address insurgency threats within the Jammu and Kashmir region.

Official Statements and Aftermath of the Operation

In an official statement, the White Knight Corps expressed satisfaction over the successful outcome of the Akhnoor operation, emphasizing the bravery and strategic coordination of the security forces involved. In a post on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Corps highlighted the retrieval of "war-like stores" from the site, reinforcing the significance of the operation in securing the region against cross-border infiltration attempts.

The security forces continue to maintain a strong presence near Akhnoor, particularly close to areas bordering Pakistan, to prevent further infiltration attempts. Ongoing patrols, combined with heightened surveillance, aim to secure the region and bolster the Army’s counter-terror preparedness.