Terrorists attack Kupwara Army camp, kill 3 Jawans

Three Indian Army personnel, including an officer, were killed in a terrorist attack on the Kupwara Army camp in Pilwama district of Jammu and Kashmir. At least two terrorists who entered the Army camp early this morning and opened fire on the armed forces have been neutralised in retaliatory firing by the Army.

Reports said the deceased officer has been identified as Capt Ayush, but the names of the two soldiers were not immediately known. Combing operations are underway to the Army is preparing against possible renewed attacks, say reports.

The Kupwara army camp is located close to the Line of Control.

Reports suggest the terrorists were heavily armed and used grenades in their attack early this morning. More forces have been rushed in and combing operations are underway.

According to CNN-News18, the terrorists were using AK-47s, GPS devices and mobile phones. A Chinese pistol and a grenade launcher were also found at the site, according to the news channel.

The fidayeens are getting support from local stone-pelters who later interrupted combing operations by pelting stones at Indian Army personnel at the site, reported CNN-News18.

Today's attack appears similar to last year's attack in Uri, where 19 soldiers were killed by terrorists who entered the country from across the border.

Home minister Rajnath Singh is likely to hold a security review meeting to look at the on-going situation in the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

The search operations continue in the area as firing was reportedly heard in a location a little ahead of the camp, indicating that there could be more than two terrorists and some were hiding in the area.

The attack also signals the trouble that could well lie ahead given that it's now summer in the Valley, which makes it easier for terrorists to cross over the LoC as the snow level is reduced compared to the winter season.

The camp that was attacked was an artillery base that was deployed close the LoC. According to Major General (Retired) Ashok Mehta, the security personnel deployed at the artillery base are not well trained to tackle terrorists as their primary focus is on maintaining the artillery at the base.

The attack comes just days after the central government said it is extending all support for tackling the terror menace and development to the Kashmir government, which should take all steps to counter terror and separatist activities. The state government also announced the arrest of separatist leader Asiya Andrabi in the state.