Bullets with steel core — It’s a new addition into the ammunition of terror groups especially Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed that has triggered an alarm within the security establishment as it has the capability to pierce a static bullet proof bunker used during counter-terrorism operations, officials said. The first such incident noticed had happened on the new year eve when terrorists of Jaish-e-Mohammed had carried out a suicide attack on CRPF camp at Lethpora in South Kashmir when one of the five personnel of para-military force was hit by a bullet fatally despite carrying out a static bullet-proof shield provided by the Army, officials said. Five CRPF personnel were killed in the attack.

A thorough enquiry showed that the bullet fired by the terrorist from the assault AK rifle was of steel core which has the capability of piercing through the static bunkers used by security personnel during encounters with terrorists.

The findings showed that the bullet, which is mainly termed as Armour Piercing (AP), is built of hardened steel or tungsten carbide.

“Precautionary measures have already been taken after the findings,” said a senior official engaged in counter-terrorism in the Kashmir Valley.

Generally, the AK bullets used in the armoury have a lead core covered with mild steel which cannot penetrate a bullet proof shield but after the December 31, 2017 encounter and subsequent findings, the rules of the proxy-war changed, the officials said.

Courtesy: The Pioneer, Monday, 18 June 2018 | PTI | Srinagar