The terrorists that stormed the Pathankot air base were carrying anti-cough tablets and painkillers with Pakistani markings, sources told HT.
“We have recovered anti-cough medicines and painkillers from the dead bodies of the terrorists killed in the Pathankot air base. They all have Pakistani marking and are not available in India,” a counter-terror official said, requesting anonymity.
After neutralising six terrorists, a combing-up operation is on at the air base to account for the weapons and ammunitions carried by the attackers. The terrorists were also carrying dry fruits, which counter-terror officials said is a standard practice among suicide attackers who are prepared for a long haul.
“We have recovered four assault rifles and three pistols so far. One of the assault rifles is equipped with an under barrel grenade launcher (UBGL) and some others have a pipe mounted on the barrel for launching mortars,” said another counter terror official involved in the mopping-up operation.
On Tuesday, defence minister Manohar Parrikar said the terrorists were carrying AK47s, modified UBGL pistols, Swiss and commando knives, 40-50 kg of bullets as well dozens of magazine and mortars.
The role of Punjab police official Salwinder Singh is also under the scanner of counter-terror officials. Singh was travelling with his friend and cook when his vehicle was snatched by the terrorists.
{{/usCountry}}The role of Punjab police official Salwinder Singh is also under the scanner of counter-terror officials. Singh was travelling with his friend and cook when his vehicle was snatched by the terrorists.
{{/usCountry}}“The big question is why he was left alive,” said a senior government official, requesting anonymity.