Body of abducted army soldier found in South Kashmir's Kokernag forests

The body of a Territorial Army soldier, who was abducted by militants during an anti-militancy operation in South Kashmir's Kokernag forests, was found on Wednesday morning. The 26-year-old soldier, a resident of Anantnag district, had been taken by militants a day earlier, according to security officials.

A joint search operation, involving the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and other agencies, was launched based on intelligence inputs about militant activity in the Kazwan forest area. The operation continued overnight as efforts were made to locate the missing soldier. A post by the Chinar Corps on X confirmed, "Massive search operation is in progress," while police sources later confirmed the recovery of the soldier’s body.

According to police, two Territorial Army personnel from the 162 Battalion were dispatched to the forest following reports of militant movement. They encountered 3-4 militants, reportedly including two foreign insurgents. One of the soldiers managed to escape despite being shot in the shoulder and was taken to the 439 Field Hospital for treatment. The militants abducted the second soldier, leading to an intense search that ultimately ended with the tragic recovery of his body.