SOURCE: AFI
Indian soldiers displayed immense courage in a deadly ambush on Monday in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district. Despite facing heavy gunfire from terrorists, the 22 Garhwal Rifles regiment fought back fiercely, unleashing over 5,000 rounds to defend themselves and prevent further casualties.
The attack unfolded when heavily armed terrorists ambushed an army patrol consisting of two trucks. A grenade was hurled, followed by indiscriminate firing on the vehicles around 3:30 pm. The attack, which occurred near Badnota village, tragically resulted in the deaths of five army personnel, including a junior commissioned officer, with five others injured.
Reports suggest a two-hour long intense firefight ensued before reinforcements arrived. Local accounts and news agency reports describe heavy firing continuing until 5 pm, followed by sporadic exchanges for another hour.
According to the Times of India, the terrorists, believed to be three in number, took advantage of thick foliage on a hilltop to launch their surprise attack. They targeted the army trucks as they navigated a bend on the Machedi-Kindli-Malhar road.
Officials informed PTI that a manhunt for the perpetrators is underway, with a truck driver and 50 others detained for questioning. This incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in the region and the bravery of Indian soldiers who confront them head-on.