SRINAGAR: An Army Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO) has died after an accidental fall during a night patrol in the Hamam Markoot area of Rafiabad in North Kashmir’s Baramulla district. The incident occurred on Monday.
The Chenab Times has learned that the deceased officer has been identified as Naib Subedar Hira Bahadur Pandey, affiliated with 32 Rashtriya Rifles and P/Unit 3/9 GR. According to official sources, the mishap took place while the Army personnel were engaged in a night patrol operation in the dense upper forest region of Hamam Markoot.
During the movement through the challenging terrain, the officer reportedly lost his balance and slipped, sustaining critical injuries. He succumbed to his injuries on the spot, officials confirmed.
Following the incident, the body was recovered from the area. Army authorities have initiated the necessary procedural steps. Officials have classified the incident as accidental, and the local police have registered a case in connection with the fall.
The upper forest belts of Rafiabad are known for their difficult and rugged terrain. Security forces frequently conduct patrols in these areas, particularly during nighttime, as part of surveillance and anti-militancy operations.
The Chenab Times News Desk
