Akhnoor (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], October 29 (HBTV): In a poignant turn during a fierce counter-terror operation on October 28 in the Battal area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Akhnoor, Phantom, a Belgian Malinois sniffer dog from the Indian Army, made the ultimate sacrifice while pursuing terrorists.

The Belgian Malinois, born in May 2020, was inducted into the Battal area in August 2022. Since his induction, Phantom had been a vital part of multiple high-stakes missions. In this operation, Phantom succumbed to injuries while aiding troops in a critical phase of the pursuit.

The operation began in the early morning when terrorists launched a surprise ambush on an army convoy in the dense jungles of Battal. The terrorists aimed to disrupt peace during the Diwali season, as part of a broader strategy by Pakistan-sponsored tanzeems to counter the Army's dominance in the hinterland and higher reaches of the Pir Panjal ranges. With increased troop density and a strong counter-infiltration grid along the Line of Control (LoC), terrorists have shifted operations closer to the LoC, resulting in desperate attempts to create chaos.

Reacting swiftly, troops engaged the terrorists, pushing them back into the dense forest. Reinforcements, including special forces and a mechanized column conducting training nearby, were deployed to reinforce the cordon. Phantom, a highly trained sniffer dog, played a crucial role in tracking the terrorists' trail amidst the challenging jungle terrain. As the operation progressed, Phantom detected hidden explosives and identified potential escape routes, enabling troops to tighten the cordon.

Tragically, during a close encounter, Phantom sustained fatal injuries while attempting to protect the troops from a terrorist’s assault. His actions were critical in ensuring the containment of the terrorists, underscoring the bravery, loyalty, and vital contributions of the Army’s canine warriors. Phantom’s sacrifice is a stark reminder of the high costs borne in the pursuit of national security and peace.

Senior officials paid tribute to Phantom’s supreme sacrifice while commending the troops' swift and coordinated response. “Phantom's bravery saved lives and was pivotal to the operation's success. His sacrifice will be remembered with honour,” said the Defence PRO.

The operation, supported by advanced technology including drones, ordnance-dropping devices, and night surveillance equipment, successfully neutralized the terror threat, preventing any escape and ensuring no casualties among troops. The mission reinforced the Army’s commitment to maintaining peace and harmony, even amid attempts to disrupt the Diwali celebrations.

Phantom’s story is a powerful symbol of the unwavering spirit of the Indian Army and its K9 unit. His sacrifice serves as a reminder of the silent but critical contributions made by canine heroes in safeguarding the nation’s security. The thwarted ambush, driven by terrorists' desperation, stands as a testament to the resilience of security forces and the people of Jammu, who continue to uphold peace despite repeated attempts at disruption.   

(ANI)