Intruder shot dead at Air Force Station could be mentally-unsound: J&K police

A 55-year old mentally challenged man was shot dead when he tried to enter the highly fortified Air Force Station in Central Kashmir's Budgam district on Sunday night.

Police said the incident occurred at midnight when an elderly man entered the security zone area, crossed the security fence and came close to the Air Force Station perimeter wall.

"Despite repeated warning from the sentry the individual did not stop. The sentry fired some warning shots in air but he did not stop. The sentry later fired towards him," said a spokesman of Jammu and Kashmir police.

Later Air force Station authorities informed the Police post Humhama and the Station House Officer and Duty Officer immediately rushed to the spot.

"Spot examination revealed that the individual of about 50-55 years of age, who appears to be mentally unsound, died in the incident," said the spokesman.

Police said the person was without footwears and proper winter clothing and did not carry any identity card. "There is no habitation near the place of incident," said the spokesman.

Local police took the body in its custody and for identification Help of nearby villages was also sought for identification of the individual.

Later in the day the slain was identified as Syed Habibullah of Soibugh village in Budgam district. Sources said he had left for evening namaz on Sunday but did not return. He had strayed 12 kilometres away from his home.

"A case has been registered and investigation has started," said the police spokesman.