Poonch terrorist attack: NIA team visits attack site, search operation underway

After the attack, they reportedly mutilated the bodies of at least two soldiers and took some of their weapons, officials say.

The People’s Anti-Fascist Front (PAFF) has claimed responsibility for the attack. The terrorists also took to social media to release pictures from the attack site, showcasing the use of sophisticated US-made M4 carbine assault rifles.

The M4 carbine is a lightweight, gas-operated, magazine-fed carbine developed in the United States during the 1980s. It is the primary infantry weapon of the US Armed Forces and has also been adopted by over 80 other countries.

Security agencies suspect PAFF might be a new front for the JeM, established by the ISI after the abrogation of Article 370.

Intelligence suggests that highly-trained terrorists have infiltrated Rajouri and Poonch districts to carry out targeted attacks on security forces, often in remote and isolated areas.

These planned attacks are aided by Over Ground Workers (OGWs) and paid agents, sources said.

According to reports, these terrorists might be using helmet cameras to record their attacks, sparking concerns that they may be using the footage from these attacks to potentially spread propaganda as well.

Security officials say that an investigation of the site is being carried out to know the pattern and use of weapons.

Steel core bullets were said to be used by the terrorists in the ambush.

The incident was reported a day after an explosion occurred inside the compound of an armed police unit. Vehicles were damaged due to the explosion on the 19th in the Surankote area, officials had said on Wednesday.

Authorities launched a probe in connection with the incident.

The National Investigation Agency and the General Officer Commanding visited the site to review the situation.