Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police RR Swain Friday rewarded nine special police officers (SPOs) by converting them to Constables in recognition of their exemplary bravery during an encounter in the Saida Sohal village of Hiranagar tehsil in Kathua district on June 11.  Two foreign terrorists were neutralized during an overnight operation in the area.

 All nine SPOs were part of the special operations group (SOG) team that was rushed to the spot to neutralize the terrorists in the area.

DGP said the police leadership in Jammu and Kashmir has decided to acknowledge the bravery of special police officers as they remain the most important component in our fight against terrorism in the region.DGP said we changed the procedure and fast-tracked their files to acknowledge their bravery.

DGP said by rewarding these nine SPOs a clear message has been sent to around 20,000 SPOs that if they will showcase bravery and even make an effort to do their best during anti-terrorist operations we will convert them to the rank of constable within 24 hours.

"The courage and professionalism exhibited by these police personnel during the encounter was exemplary even when they were temporary members of J&K police. These promotions are a testament to their valor and dedication.

As these police personnel become permanent members of J&K Police, this will encourage the Kathua  Police, especially SOG Kathua & SPOs, and boost their morale during such operations and encountering ANEs and other hardcore criminals.

Meanwhile, addressing the gathering at District Police Lines, Kathua DGP also assured that the Village defense groups will be strengthened in Kathua and other places.

SPOs will be promoted to win the war against terrorism. DGP said, “The  Jammu and Kashmir Police is like a sword against the terror ecosystem. If this sword, which belongs to the people, is not properly maintained, victory in this war against terrorism cannot be achieved". Pointing to a series of recent terror attacks in the Union Territory, the DGP said terrorists can neither defeat the force nor diminish its resolve.

He also said the police are well-equipped with advanced weaponry, including arms from Israel and Germany. “We have no weaknesses as far as arms are concerned,” the DGP said.