In a tragic turn of events, Indian Army dog Phantom was killed during an eight-hour gun battle with terrorists along the Line of Control in Akhnoor, Jammu. The fierce encounter began early Monday morning around 7 AM when terrorists launched an attack on an ambulance that was part of an army convoy in the Battal area of Akhnoor’s Khour, located approximately 85 kilometers from Jammu city.
As security forces engaged with the militants, Phantom, a brave Belgian Malinois trained for assault operations, drew enemy fire, sustaining fatal injuries. The White Knight Corps honored Phantom’s bravery in a post on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “His courage, loyalty, and dedication will never be forgotten.” The dog had been posted since August 12, 2022, after being issued from the Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) Centre in Meerut.
The ongoing operation has resulted in the neutralization of one terrorist and the recovery of warlike stores. Officials suspect that three terrorists were involved in the gunfight, with the killed terrorist reportedly donning attire similar to the army’s combat fatigues. Preliminary investigations indicate a possible connection to the Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorist group.
The skirmish occurs against a backdrop of escalating violence in Jammu and Kashmir, with eight terror attacks reported in the past two weeks alone, resulting in over a dozen fatalities. On October 24, terrorists ambushed a convoy carrying Rashtriya Rifles personnel and civilian porters near Gulmarg, resulting in the deaths of two soldiers and two civilian workers. Earlier, on October 20, seven individuals were killed at a construction site in Sonamarg, including a doctor and six migrant workers.
Phantom’s sacrifice underscores the invaluable role that military dogs play in operations against terrorism, often risking their lives alongside their human counterparts to protect the nation. The Indian Army continues its commitment to combating terrorism in the region, even as it mourns the loss of this loyal canine warrior.
Sources By Agencies
