Terrorist Attack on Indian Air Force Convoy in Jammu and Kashmir

In Short

• Air Force convoy attacked in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch.
• May 4 attack claimed one soldier’s life, injured four.
• Three terrorists identified as Illiyas, Abu Hamza, and Hadoon.

On May 4, a tragic incident unfolded in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, as an Indian Air Force (IAF) convoy came under a terrorist attack, resulting in the death of Corporal Vikky Pahade and injuries to four others.

Following the attack, a comprehensive investigation was launched, leading to the identification of three individuals suspected to be involved in the assault.

The terrorists have been named as Illiyas (a former Pakistani Army Commando), Abu Hamza (a commander affiliated with Lashkar-e-Taiba), and Hadoon, with Illiyas also known by the alias ‘Fauji’.

Their ties to the People’s Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF), an organization linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, indicate the serious nature of the attack.

In response to this egregious act, a large-scale search operation is ongoing in the forests of Rajouri and Poonch to locate and apprehend the perpetrators.

Authorities have zeroed in on several potential suspects and have interrogated numerous individuals regarding their connections with the three identified terrorists.

The PAFF, an extremist group with ties to Jaish-e-Mohammed, previously claimed responsibility for a separate attack on an Army vehicle in Poonch in December, resulting in the deaths of four soldiers.

The recent attack on the IAF convoy occurred near Shahsitar in the Poonch district, where five IAF personnel sustained bullet wounds and were promptly evacuated to the nearest military hospital.

Tragically, despite receiving medical care, one of the injured IAF members succumbed to their injuries.

After the assault, it was reported that the terrorists had fled into the nearby forested area, prompting a concerted effort to track down and bring them to justice.

The brazen attack not only resulted in the loss of a dedicated IAF officer but also inflicted harm upon other personnel, underscoring the gravity of the situation and the urgency of addressing the threat posed by such violent actors.

The authorities remain committed to relentlessly pursuing the individuals responsible for this reprehensible act and ensuring the safety and security of the region.

It is essential that all available resources and diligent efforts be directed toward thwarting the activities of such extremist elements, preserving the peace and stability of the region, and safeguarding the lives of those who serve their nation with courage and honor.