Srinagar, April 01 (GNS): A policeman was killed in a militant attack at the residence of a BJP leader in Aribagh in Nowgam area of Srinagar on Thursday. The militants also decamped with Ak-47 rifle of the policeman who was posted on guard duties at the BJP leader Anwar Khan. The BJP leader was not at his residence, when the militants carried out the attack, a police officer told GNS.
“In the attack, a policeman, Ramiz Raja, was injured and he was shifted to SMHS hospital. However he succumbed to the injuries,” the police officer said. The officer also confirmed that militants fled with rifle, Ak-47, of the injured cop. Police, he said, has registered a case and started investigations.
In a statement issued in the evening, police said that preliminary investigation reveals that the attack at the residential guard of BJP leader Anwar Khan was carried out by a group of four militants and on the analysis of CCTV footage it came to fore that a burka-clad militant in woman tone asked the sentry on duty to open the door. “The moment Sentry opened door, two other (militants) started firing indiscriminately at him while the third militant snatched his rifle.”
In this incident, police said, Constable Rameez Raja sustained grievous gunshot injuries and was evacuated to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
“It is pertinent to mention that post- attack, IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar (IPS) visited the area and inspected the scene of crime. Preliminary investigation indicated that the (militants) linked with LeT are involved in the attack, two local identified as Shahid Khursheed Dar son of Khursheed Ahmad resident of Methan Chanapora and Ubaid Shafi Dar son of Mohd Shafi resident of Firdousabad Batamaloo were part of the group. However, further investigations are vigorously going on.”
Besides, to pay honour and respect to the cop, a wreath lying ceremony was held at DPL Srinagar where floral tributes were paid to him.
It said Police has registered a case in this regard under relevant sections of law and officers continue to work to establish the full circumstances of this incident. “Cordon and search operation at various locations is going on to nab the assailants.”