Jammu, December 15: In the year 2018, at least 44 policemen have lost their lives in a series of militant attacks in different parts of Jammu and Kashmir. According to reports, the number of casualties this year marked the highest number of deaths of policemen in the state since 2006. According to the Ministry of Home Affairs data, over 87 security personnel, including 44 state police personnel, 32 army jawans, seven CRPF men and one CISF, BSF and SSB jawan were killed in separate incidences across the state.

According to a report by Hindustan Times, the rebels even abducted the family members of the policemen in South Kashmir and then released them. The data by the government also shows that 230 militants died in encounters with security personnel. The HT report further informs that in 2017, as many as 32 policemen were killed while in 2016, a total of 18 people were killed. Won't Hesitate from Another Surgical Strike if Need Arises: Lt Gen Devraj Anbu. 

Jammu and Kashmir have been witnessing violent protests and militant attacks over the past few years. According to the report, in the years 2015 and 2014, 11 and 16 policemen were killed in various militant attacks in different parts of the state.  In the wake of the rising number of militant attacks in the state, officials had warned policemen to take precautions while on leave or visiting their native places.

In the last week, it was reported that security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have eliminated over 230 militants this year so far. Also, there has been a dip in injuries caused due to stone pelting. According to a PTI report, as many as 51 terrorists were killed in the 80-day period from June 25 to September 14, while 85 terrorists were killed between September 15 and December 5, an official said.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 15, 2018 01:46 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).