JAMMU KASHMIR-RAJOURI: Tragedy struck the military convoy in Rajouri's Thanamandi area as five soldiers lost their lives while two sustained injuries in a ruthless terrorist assault. Army officials confirmed the heightened death toll from the initial attack.

The incident unfolded when terrorists ambushed two army vehicles transporting troops in Rajouri's Thanamandi. The assault occurred around 3:45 PM on December 21, targeting the convoy heading towards an operational site. An Army official recounted, "At approximately 3:45 PM on December 21, two army vehicles carrying troops were moving to the operational site, which was fired upon by the terrorists. The fire was immediately retaliated upon by our troops."

This assault took place within the broader ongoing operation around the DKG (Dera ki Gali) area that commenced on the night of December 20. "Indian Army troops immediately retaliated after being attacked by terrorists. The troops were going to reinforce a joint operation against terrorists underway in the area since last evening. The operations are taking place in the 48 Rashtriya Rifles area," stated Army officials.

The operation persists as security forces continue their efforts to gather further details amidst the ongoing mission. Congress leader Rahul Gandhi conveyed his condolences following the devastating attack. He expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of the soldiers in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir, highlighting their valorous sacrifice in defending the nation.

"The news of the martyrdom of our soldiers in the dastardly terrorist attack in Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir, is very sad. The country will always remember their supreme sacrifice in defence of India. In this difficult time, I express my deepest condolences to the bereaved families of the martyrs," Rahul Gandhi posted, translated from Hindi.

Amid the aftermath, security personnel initiated a search operation in the forest area of Dera ki Gali in Rajouri district, where the terrorists ambushed two Army vehicles.