Fresh attacks on J&K banks, militants flee with Rs 5 lakh

In fresh attacks on banking institutions in Kashmir, militants on Wednesday robbed two banks in Pulwama district, making away with nearly Rs 5 lakh, reported news agency ANI. While the first attack took place at a branch of Ellaquai Dehati Bank in Wahibug village, the other attack happened at J&K Bank in Nehama Kakapora area. The incidents came a day after unidentified gunmen robbed Rs 65,000 from another branch of the same bank in Kulgam district.

Separately, a similar attack took place in Pumai village, near Kulgam district, on Monday, where four to five members of the Hizbul Mujahideen, dressed in combat fatigues, intercepted a cash van, killing five policemen and two private security guards. They also snatched four rifles from the policemen. The JK Police have identified militant behind the Kulgam incident and announced Rs 5 lakh cash reward on them.

In the last few months, at least six banks have been targeted in south and central Kashmir.

Meanwhile, five policemen guarding a court complex in Shopian district were also attacked by militants this week. Their SLR rifles were snatched before the militants fled, the police were quoted as saying by PTI. While no one was injured, the policemen were suspended today, reported ANI.

Reacting to the series of attacks on banks, Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said, "Ask (militants) what do we achieve from looting of banks and killing of soldiers? I appeal to youth of J&K to help us ensure peace in the state"