Massive attack averted as 4 JeM terrorists killed in encounter near Ban Toll Plaza in Jammu; 11 AK-47s recovered

 Security has been tightened in Nagrota along Jammu-Srinagar National Highway after four Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists were neutralised during an encounter near Ban toll plaza near the city. Two constables suffered injuries in the exchange of fire. The highway has been closed for routine commuting and according to the latest information shared by the police, the encounter is still underway. 

The four terrorists were hiding in a truck and were trying to escape to Srinagar. The security forces used UBGL (under barrel grenade launcher)to decimate the hidden terrorists, who were also firing from their end. The truck was targeted and explosion could be seen in the CCTV footage that has appeared. All the terrorists were killed by the end of 2 hour-long encounter.

According to sources, CRPF and J&K Police received input about the movement of terrorists from the Samba sector towards Nagrota Toll Plaza. “They were trapped and eliminated. Total 11 AK-47 rifles have been recovered” – officials said. Addressing a press conference, Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone said that the security personnel were also fired upon as a result of which two constables were injured.

Jammu and Kashmir DGP Dilbag Singh said, ‘As per the inputs received by us, a large group of terrorists that attacked the security forces was trying to enter Jammu and Kashmir from Pakistan.’ Highlighting the heavy exchange of fire between India and Pakistan at the LOC last week, he said, ‘the security in areas of Samba and Hiranagar was already beefed up.’

Singh informed that 11 AK-47 rifles, 3 pistols, 29 grenades and other devices have been recovered from the site of encounter. “It seems they had infiltrated with the intention of doing something big and were headed towards Kashmir valley. Operation is underway,” he said.

Singh said that the truck driver is absconding. An operation is underway to locate him, he said. 

“It’s possible that they were planning a big attack. This kind of seizure is unprecedented. It’s possible that they were targeting DDC election. However, we are investigating,” the IG said.