5 soldiers killed as terrorists attack Army vehicle in J&K, one injured
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Srinagar: Five soldiers of Rastriya Rifles united, deployed in the Union Territory for counterterrorist operations, were killed in a terrorist attack in Pooch of Rajouri sector on Thursday.
The deadly attack, which left a fifth one with serious injuries getting care in hospital, comes a week after Union Home Minister Amit Shah and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval reviewed the security situation in the region.
The unidentified terrorists fired upon the Army vehicle in which the soldiers were travelling at around 3 pm near the Bhimber Gali area.
The vehicle later caught fire from a suspected grenade attack, Army sources, as reported by NDTV, said.
Terrorists targeted the vehicle taking advantage of the heavy rain coupled with low visibility, the statement by Northern Command said.
Army sources said that operations are underway to locate the attackers.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, acknowledging the attack, said his thoughts are with the bereaved families.
‘Anguished by the tragedy in Poonch District (J&K), where the Indian Army has lost its brave soldiers after a truck caught fire. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with the bereaved families,’ said Rajnath Singh reportedly said.
The attack coincides with Pakistan’s announcement on Thursday of its Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s visit to India next month to participate Shanghai Cooperation Organisation foreign ministers’ meeting in Goa. Meanwhile, G20 Tourism Working Group will meet in Srinagar in May.