J-K: Pakistan targets Indian posts in Akhnoor, Poonch, 5 injured

Pakistani forces have violated the ceasefire several times in recent days

Pakistan opened heavy fire at Indian posts in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch and Jammu districts twice on Wednesday, wounding five persons including two BSF jawans.

Border Security Force (BSF) personnel patrol the International Border in Jammu. (PTI FILE)

In the morning, the Pakistan army opened fire at Indian troops in Degwar area of Poonch district along the Line of Control (LoC), prompting India to retaliate.

In the second ceasefire violation of the day, Pakistan Rangers opened heavy fire and shot few mortars in Pargwal sector along the International Border in Akhnoor area of Jammu district around 3.45 pm.

BSF retaliated in equal measure. There were no reports of casualty.

In another incident of ceasefire violation, Pakistan Army resorted to firing and shelling on Indian posts along the LoC in Mankote, Sabjian and Digwar forward areas in Poonch since 1500 hours, another police officer said.

Three civilians and two BSF Jawans suffered injuries, he said, adding that heavy exchange of fire were taking place.

On Monday afternoon, the Pakistan army had initiated unprovoked ceasefire violation in the Poonch sector along the LoC.

Pakistani forces have violated the ceasefire several times in recent days, officials said. Incidents of ceasefire violation by Pakistan have increased sharply this year.

Till August 1, there were 285 such violations by the Pakistan Army, while in 2016, the number was significantly less at 228 for the entire year, according to army figures.

(With agency inputs)