NSG Commando Lt Col Niranjan Killed In Pathankot Attack, Rajnath Says,…

According to multiple agencies, the martyrs included a Garud Commando from IAF, 5 personnel of the Defence Security Corps (DSC) and an NSG personnel. Authorities have confirmed four terrorists have been killed in all but there is still no clarity on how many terrorists crossed over to India.

Defence sources said the terrorists sneaked into the almost 2000-acre air base through a forested area where they were confronted by the Quick Reaction Team of Garud commandos. Also, the number of injured officials are 20, which include 8 from the Indian Air Force and 12 from the National Security Guard.

An IED planted by the terrorists exploded during the combing operations that continued through the night after heavily-armed Pakistani terrorists attempted to storm the Air Force base yesterday.

"We are sure that still there are at least two more terrorists as firing have come from two different places".

Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi will brief the media on the attack at 5 pm today giving details about the counter operation.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh tweeted: "Pained to know about the demise of Lt Col Niranjan of NSG during mopping up operations in Pathankot".

While four terrorists, who carried out a Fidayeen attack at the IAF base on Saturday, were killed by security agencies during a gunfight that lasted for 15-hours. Still the death toll is unusually high given that there was prior intelligence of an attack and forces were on high alert.

"The operations are at a mature stage".

Meanwhile, fresh firing began today at the Base after reports emerged of terrorists who were still active inside.

There was heavy but brief exchange of fire at the area of operation where additional reinforcements rushed as five companies, comprising almost 500 personnel, were deployed by the army. Both were present at a HAL function in Tumakuru in Karnataka.

Ghaziabad, Jan 3 Security at Hindon Air Force base on the outskirts of the national capital has been stepped up and a high alert sounded in the wake of terror strike in Pathankot of Punjab.

• Putin gifts Mahatma Gandhi's notes, Bengal sword to Modi

• ISIS leader challenges US, allies