Kokernag encounter hasn't changed peaceful atmosphere in Kashmir, affirms DGP Dilbagh Singh

File Photo/PTI

Jammu and Kashmir's DGP Dilbagh Singh assured on Wednesday that the recent Kokernag encounter in Anantnag district has not disrupted the peaceful climate in the region. He emphasized that the situation remains as peaceful as it was prior to the gunfight, despite the unfortunate loss of three officers who were killed in the gunfight.

Speaking to reporters at the inauguration of the modular police station in Katra, Jammu, DGP Singh stated that the Kokernag encounter hasn't changed the overall situation in Kashmir. He said that certain vested interests may be attempting to exaggerate the incident.

He acknowledged the tactical advantage held by those who initiated fire and recounted the Kokernag episode where militants fired first, resulting in the tragic deaths of two army officers and one police officer. He praised the security forces for their week-long operation, successfully neutralizing the dreaded Lashkar-e-Toiba militant Uzair Khan and his associate, despite the challenges posed by the vast mountainous terrain.

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DGP Singh affirmed the unwavering commitment of the police and security forces to eliminate terrorism from the soil of Jammu and Kashmir, asserting that they are actively pursuing the remaining militants.

He highlighted the intensified efforts against narco-terrorism, pointing to increased arrests, FIRs, and cases related to this threat.

Additionally, the DGP emphasized the significance of the newly inaugurated police station in Katra, which is expected to provide enhanced support to Mata Vaishno Devi pilgrims. He noted that the previous police station was in a state of disrepair, leading to the decision to establish a new facility to better serve the community.

8 labourers injured in explosion in Anantnag, cops rule out terror angle

On Wednesday, September 27, eight people were injured in an explosion in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district, police said.

However, police ruled out any terror angle, saying the blast occurred in a "load carrier" vehicle carrying a concrete vibration machine, a portable generator and a can of oil.

"An explosion occurred in the cement mix settling vibration machine, adjacent portable generator and tin can of oil being carried with labourers in a load carrier at Larkipora Anantnag," Kashmir Zone Police said in a post on X.

Eight labourers sustained burn injuries and they are being treated at a hospital, police said. "All stable. No terrorist angle was observed. Investigation started," police said in the post. (Agencies)