JAMMU, June 10: Security forces have launched a large-scale cordon and search operation to apprehend the terrorists responsible for the deadly attack on a passenger bus in Jammu and Kashmir’s Reasi district. The ambush left nine people dead and over 40 injured, officials reported on Monday.
The bus, carrying pilgrims from Uttar Pradesh and Delhi, was attacked on Sunday evening while traveling from the Shiv Khori temple to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine near Teryath village in the Poni area. The terrorists opened fire on the 53-seater bus, causing it to plunge into a deep gorge.
A multi-dimensional cordon has been established by the Army, police, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) around the Teryath-Poni-Shiv Khori area bordering Rajouri district. The operation, which includes the use of drones, sniffer dogs, and other surveillance equipment, aims to track down the terrorists believed to be hiding in the dense forests and deep gorges of the region.
“Search operations have been launched in the area,” said Senior Superintendent of Police, Reasi, Mohita Sharma. Village defense committees have also been mobilized to assist in the efforts.
Officials confirmed that over 40 people were injured in the attack, with 10 sustaining bullet wounds. The security forces are continuing their efforts to ensure the terrorists are apprehended and to restore safety in the affected areas.
