KISHTWAR :The Special Police Officer (SPO) who had gone missing along with his service rifle in Kishtwar district was found dead near his residence on Friday, officials said.
A senior police officer said the SPO was posted at Pedil police post since 2025 and had gone missing from his post along with his service Self Loading Rifle (SLR) and a magazine, following which police and security forces had launched a search operation.
The official said the body of the SPO was today found near his residence and the service rifle was also recovered from the spot.
A Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) team has reached the spot to examine the evidence. The exact cause of death is still unclear and investigation is underway, the officer said.
The deceased has been identified as Bashir Ahmed, 55, son of Musa Dhar, resident of Wanipora Trigam.
Police have taken cognizance of the incident and initiated further probe.