- Victim dies on the spot; police launch probe
- Area sanitised to detect unexploded material
Baramulla: A civilian was killed in a suspected explosion triggered by an old explosive object in the upper reaches of Gulmarg in north Kashmir’s Baramulla on Saturday, prompting a swift response from police and security forces.
Officials said the incident occurred at around 3 pm at a remote behak a high-altitude grazing pasture in the upper reaches of the Gulmarg. Information about the explosion was received by the authorities shortly after the blast, following which police and security personnel rushed to the site.
Upon reaching the spot, the responding teams found one person dead. The deceased was identified as Zubair Ahmad Bajjad, a resident of Lateefabad Khudpora in the Chandoosa area of Baramulla district.
A police spokesman said that at approximately 1500 hours, information was received regarding an incident at a remote behak in the upper reaches district Baramulla.
Police and security personnel immediately rushed to the spot, where one person was found dead.
“Preliminary enquiry indicates that the incident occurred after the deceased came into contact with an old explosive object lying in the area, resulting in a fatal explosion,” he said.
The spokesman said inquest proceedings have been initiated under the relevant provisions of law.
“A forensic examination of the scene has been conducted, and specialist teams are carrying out thorough sanitisation of the area as a precautionary measure to rule out the presence of any other unexploded explosive material,” it said.
Meanwhile, police said further investigation into the incident is in progress.
Meanwhile, amid the incident, Police Baramulla also issued a clarification regarding rumours circulating on social media alleging that Army personnel had sustained injuries at Asha Post.
Police termed the claims “completely false, baseless and devoid of factual basis,” clarifying that no Army personnel had sustained injuries at the post.
Authorities said the circulation of false and unverified information has the potential to create panic, confusion, and disturb public order. Citizens were urged to rely only on information disseminated through official channels.
Police said it has taken cognizance of the matter and warned that anyone found responsible for creating or spreading false information with the intention of misleading the public or disturbing peace would face strict legal action under relevant provisions of law.
Reiterating its commitment to maintaining public peace and transparency, the Police urged the public to promptly report suspicious objects or misinformation to prevent panic and ensure safety.
