Kishtwar, Oct 16 (KNB): A 55-year-old Special Police Officer (SPO), who had gone missing along with his service rifle from a police post in Kishtwar district, was found dead near his residence on Friday, officials said.
The deceased was identified as Bashir Ahmed, a resident of Wanipora Trigam.
Officials said Ahmed was posted at Pedil Police Post since 2025. He had reportedly gone missing along with his service self-loading rifle (SLR) and a magazine, prompting police and security forces to launch a search operation to trace him.
His body was subsequently recovered near his residence on Friday, while the missing service rifle was also found, officials said.
A team from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) visited the spot to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Officials said the exact cause of death has not yet been ascertained. Police have taken cognizance of the matter and initiated an investigation to establish the circumstances leading to his death.
Further details are awaited. (KNB)