Srinagar, Oct 8: Security forces have launched a massive search operation in the dense forest areas of Kokernag in South Kashmir’s Anantnag district after two Army soldiers went out of contact during an ongoing anti-terror operation, officials said on Tuesday. The soldiers, part of a small team conducting a cordon and search operation (CASO) in the region, have been untraceable since yesterday, prompting a large-scale manhunt in the upper reaches.
According to official sources, inclement weather conditions, including poor visibility and recent snowfall, are believed to have contributed to the communication breakdown. “It appears the duo might have strayed from their unit due to challenging terrain and harsh weather, which severely limited visibility,” sources noted.
Helicopters have been pressed into service to support ground forces as they comb through thick forests and difficult terrain to trace the missing personnel. The search operation remains ongoing, with security forces leaving no stone unturned in their efforts.
Meanwhile, defence officials maintained that no official confirmation has been received yet regarding the missing status of the soldiers, even as the coordinated search and rescue operation intensifies in the region.