SF launch CASO in Pulwama, clashes erupt

Srinagar, Mar 18: Security forces on Monday launched a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in south Kashmir district of Pulwama, where clashes erupted and internet mobile service was suspended as a precautionary measure.

Official sources said troops of Rashitriya Rifles (RR), CRPF and Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir police launched a joint CASO in village Drabgam and Pulwama following a tip off about the presence of militants.

All the exit points were sealed and house-to-house searches were launched, they said adding the operation is going on when the reports last came in.

Additional security forces have been deployed in the area to prevent demonstration.

The authorities also suspended mobile internet service in the area to curtail the spread of rumours.

Meanwhile, people, mostly youths, hit the streets in the nearby villages and tried to disrupt the operation. However, security forces deployed in the area burst teargas shells and resorted to lathicharge to prevent the stone pelting demonstrators to enter the cordoned off area.

Locals alleged that one person was injured after security forces fired pellets, they said adding that clashes continued.