PART 1 OPERATION ‘COBRA’ BILLION DOLLAR SERENDIPITY (REAL ACTION ACCOUNT)

         
ACTION WHERE ONLY VALIANT LIVE TO SEE THE VANQUISHED DEAD

An extremely specialized hair-raising series of military actions, which I undertook, under the code name Operation ‘Cobra’, Part 1, 2 and 3, is narrated by me, Col Rakesh Dubey, Vir Chakra; in exact minute to minute and inch by inch details, raising Goosebumps, shivers and butterflies in the stomach. The flash back, commences----- 
 

The information is apt correct Sir! My Officer confirmed to me, the source operating with the terrorist group has just transmitted, that one member of the dreaded terrorist group which was operating in that area is detaching himself for an errand job in the town. A right opportunity I calculated to do something.       

The terrain was tropical, with thickly wooded forest, interspersed with fast moving turbulent rivers and streams; causing all possible obstacles to my unhindered and uninterrupted move to the town. Reaching the town, without palaver and loss of time was my primary concern.

We were a highly motivated and well trained menacing Combat Unit. Nothing possibly could stop us in reaching our goal in time, but then the War Zone is full of uncertainties, of which I was fully aware; an eventuality not catered for in the gambit of war planning does always crop up, at a time, when you least expected it.

I had to take risk, moving a larger and a bigger combat outfit swiftly through an IED infested thick forest, an area which was also dominated by the second most dreaded terrorist group of the world; was a herculean task. The orders of the Oversea Forces Head Quarters was crisp clear. No movement of Combat Soldiers, in this highly volatile and dangerously inflammable war zone was permitted, if lacking viability of a sustained independent military action.

Combat Army Soldiering, is not TV channel rhetoric or a Bollywood Movie, nor it is some over hyped fake NGO operation, people who keep roaming in Army Cantts and forward areas fooling and cashing gullible Indian Army Senior Officers greed for media footage. Thus causing more damage to the Army Image than glory; It is a hard core life and death situation; It is no second chance deadly life threatening action and adventure. A Combat Soldier has absolutely minimum course correction options, after he is launched into lethal conflict.

I am known and capable of fool proof bold and dangerous decisions, now since the time was short, in fact there was no time freedom available with us at all; I had to decide and move fast for our quick presence in town, in order to reconnoiter, carry out urban ambush to trap and stealthily apprehend the terrorist. The vital information which he may provide thereafter, may help us in eliminating the entire group much swiftly.

Our mandate was specific, to eliminate this terrorist group as fast and early as possible; which however was not an easy task. We were navigating our way through the jungle, by keeping the main highway as our reference point on our right.

OK! I said, “prepare four, do or die soldiers, who would move along with me, in advance; to the town. Our mode of transport will be to catch/capture the first good condition fast moving vehicle appearing on the road now, the advantage would be, zero suspicion and give away, and insurance of our fast uninterrupted move to the town."

All five of us were heavily armed, carrying the most lethal combination of weapon and equipment for fierce and deadly fight, with any armed opposition, which may or happen to cross our path, interrupting our move to the Town.

My combat soldiers were Shivaji Maharaj Marathas, who were not only, by DNA guerrillas, but were also trained as lethal Fighters, Their skin texture easily merging with the locals, which on many precarious situation worked to our advantage. We detached our self from our main outfit. The combat drills were in place, since I and four others were moving by road, for fast and swift action; my remaining boys would join me in town, traversing through the jungle, fighting their way, if required.

The drill to stop a civilian vehicle on the road was simple; one of the combat soldiers in civil dress would stand on the side of the road, to stop a vehicle, the remaining four of us would take covert combat position 100 meters ahead, in the direction of move of vehicle. We were in position; it was almost half an hour of wait, when we noticed, a vehicle approaching towards our position on the road. My soldier in civilian dress took position in the centre of the road, frantically waving for the vehicle to stop. The vehicle accelerated, an unusual action, it was an Ambulance. It zoom passed my soldier standing in civilian dress, it is than we came out of our position, making our self visible to stop the Ambulance. We all heard a loud crackle sound of an automatic weapon shots. In split second, we were on ground, taking covered position to fire. I fired, never missing my aim, the bullet hit the rear left Tyre, and the ambulance skid, swirled to the left, and came crashing down into the rain water ditch on our the side of the road.

We ran towards the stalled ambulance, I was facing the rear ambulance door which was locked from outside, I fired splintering the lock into two piece, took a step and pulled the door wide, opening it towards outside. I was right in time, which I realized later; a tall, young, and a well built muscular boy was standing and struggling to pull something out of his pocket. I leaped forward and pulled his right leg with full force, he tumbled head first on me. He was overpowered immediately by my ferocious soldiers. “Where is the weapon which fired”? I thought to myself. We made frantic search, it was not to be seen, it was then we realize, that there is a driver’s cabin in front. I moved in front. my soldier had already opened the co-drivers door, and was standing covering the driver’s cabin, with his weapon poised to fire. The driver was leaning resting his head on the steering wheel, he appeared incapacitated, and we failed to fathom at that moment, the reason of his present state.

We were on the highway, and therefore could not risk exposing our self in open for long, it was dangerous to our overall safety. We had to move fast to extricate our self from this mess. I ordered my men, to replace the damaged Tyre with the spare wheel, for our vehicular move forward.

During the time the damage Tyre was being removed and replaced, we made use of the waiting time to unravel the entire mystery of this chanced encounter. The findings were unbelievable, shockingly elevating and equal to discovery of treasure of gold. We recovered a Micro Uzi 9MM Sub Machine Gun, from the driver. The driver was dead, biting into the cyanide capsule, which was hanging by his neck.

We had found our catch, the dreaded terrorist, who had detached himself from his group for an errand job in the town. At the time, when I had pulled him by his right leg, he was frantically trying to pull, the cyanide capsule from his pocket. His tactical mistake, since he was required to visit the town; he had shifted the cyanide capsule from round his neck to his trouser pocket, lest it gives away his identity. An Italian Brass Knuckle Duster Dual with a Deadly Spring Knife was also recovered from him. He was a trained Martial Art expert, especially when using that specialized knife. I till date, carry that weapon system, as a souvenir of that encounter.

The Ambulance was ready to move. My boys had secured the high value terrorist catch, bundling him up at the rear cabin, where we all sat. My soldier in civil dress was in the driver’s seat, taking command of the steering wheel. We were speeding for town, a place where we had our Operation Base.

The 9MM Uzi Sub Machine Gun was my weapon now, with no dearth of 9mm ammunition with us at our base; the testing of this new acquisition will be done in the morning tomorrow. The palpitation and worry however was the dead terrorist. How and where we had disposed him? I leave it to the readers conjecture and imagination. A military operational hazard best if not disclosed.  

It was dusk, when we entered the Town. “switch on the ambulance siren”, I ordered the driver. In urban Anti Terrorist Operations, the major threat and fear remains from our own non fighting troops and specially officers, any inadvertent leakage of information to them will not only jeopardize the ongoing Anti Terrorist Operations but will also place you, as the Commander, in major trouble. The ambulance siren was to ensure that no one stops us, till we reach our base.

It was smooth sailing; we had reached the safe confines of our secure Base. The deadly terrorist was secured in a window less, room, and apart from my fierce lethal soldier guards; the terrorist was kept bare clothes, this was done to reduce the percentage possibility of his escape.

I was expecting my balance combat outfit back to base by late night or latest by early morning. In fast moving fluid Anti Terrorist Military Operations, time is always short, whoever moves faster wins. Such advantage, I had never provided to my adversary, I made them run from crisis to crisis, the initiative always remaining with me. Therefore before dawn, we had to extract maximum information from this major terrorist catch. As experienced, after a lapse of 4-6 hours, any information gained is of little or of no tactical value.

My interrogation team was already on the designed task, of value information extraction. No third degree method was allowed by me. In fact, my orders were very clear; if any one learnt or saw use of third degree, in any military operations, report the matter. Third degree interrogation technique can never produce authentic or correct information of value. Severe the pressure on the Terrorist, concocted and false knowledge he will divulge.

I had to take some rest; tomorrow, was going to be a busy day. Interrogation continuing, I retired to my room for few hours of rest before advent of dawn.

COVERT MILITARY OPERATION

I must have hardly slept, when I heard a subdued tone of my soldier, who was frantically attempting to wake me from my deep sleep. Initially, I thought, it was a dream, but then the crescendo was alarming. I woke, opening one eye to confirm the fact, “Sir! He blurted”. I could see a cup of hot tea, in his hand, indicating that there was no going back on my sleep; the issue was something urgent and serious. "What”? I said, getting up and taking the hot cup of tea from his hand. This was the usual drill, a bed tea as we call in the Army.

I was informed, of the arrival of Indian Secret Service&Espionage Agency (SEA) sleuths at my base.” Lord Shiva” I said, how did they learn about our prize catch? I had informed no one till now.

The “SEA” vehicle was held at the Base gate, waiting for my clearance to let them in.”Get them to my office”, I ordered. “Also ensure” I said, “hot cup of tea and something to eat for all, “bread and omelet would be fine for all”, I repeated. That was the staple diet in the Army for quick fast food.

I was wondering, what could be their task or aim and interest in my combat operations and me? Just then, my JCO (Junior Commission Officer) requested his entry, to seek permission to usher in, the arrived “SEA” sleuths.

Five smartly dressed men of my age were brought in. After exchange of initial pleasantries, we sat down to discuss the reason of their visit. “Sorry! For having disturbed you.” They spoke in harmony, “Sir! You have beaten us in fishing this dreaded terrorist, he is one of the prized catch, the one we were tracking since very long.” “It doesn’t matter.”I said, “Till the time, we are all working for India.”With that statement, I summoned my JCO. “Gentlemen,” I retorted, “before we proceed any further, my JCO, will have you photographed, along with your individual government, identity card.” “Secondly”, I said, “It would be great, if I am able to speak to your Operation Boss, before we precede any further to meet your requirement.

All professional formalities were completed, in no time. They were carrying a small brief case, which was a satellite communication system; hence, my interaction with their Operation Boss, located in the Capital City of that country was no problem. The communication was secure and safe in military point of view.

“Yes”! I said, “What is your requirement and aim to come here”? Their operational boss, had disclosed nothing, although, he had given clearance to his men to interact with me.

“Sir”! The senior most amongst them spoke, instantly. “The terrorist catch, held with you will disclose nothing at all; he is their hard core man, dreaded and dangerous.” “It is not only very difficult but impossible to apprehend such terrorist alive, they consume cyanide, the moment they fear capture.” The “SEA” sleuths made a failed attempt, to impress me. “Well”! I said, “let us cut this entire preamble, may I request you all, to come to the point and give reasons of your visit”? My utterance, was followed by total silence, none of them spoke, or were probably taken off guard. Looking at them point blank, I again spoke, loud and clear. “What made you people come here? And what do you all want from me? “Give out, or we part.” I was a combat infantry officer; my voice was crisp straight and sounded like an order.

It is then; one of them slid a letter across the table. It was an official letter, asking me to hand over the dreaded terrorist, held with me; to them. This would have been a big jolt to anyone else, but for me it was excitement, thrill and test of my military prowess.

“Well I said.” “Have you people ever seen a cat hunt a rat? You know the cat stalks its prey, capture, then again releases it to make the rat run all over the cat’s domain, always keeping track by smell and sight, in the end again pouncing to capture for kill.” They were an intelligent lot, understood my modus operandi. The thrill visible and writ all over their face, they concurred simultaneously, to what I implied.

The interrogation of the dreaded and dangerous terrorist had yielded nothing, till now; it was day break, 0630 hours by clock time. The terrorist held in captivity was, of no worthwhile use to our military operations, and therefore holding him any further was an exercise in vain.

THE TERRORIST ESCAPE

The cliffhanger and dangerous military operation was ready to be launched. It was planned that the captive terrorist will be made to escape from our custody, clandestinely, tonight. And giveaway no clue to the terrorist, that the laxity in his security was deliberate and planned.

The “SEA” sleuths had taken upon themselves, to track the terrorist. They had a system, of piercing a hair thin micro wire, in the epidermis layer of skin, an action similar to an inadvertent piercing of a wood or wire splinter in skin, while performing a household chore; which would give out, signature emission, to be picked up by a hand held tracking device. The technology had slight limitation, a presence of foreign material in the skin would cause inflammation of the pierced skin, once red and swollen, and the wire was likely to come out with the pus, which can happen anytime between seven to ten days. The process can be hastened, by a doctor, but that possibility seemed remote, under severe condition of escape and pursuit. 

We had a full day at our disposal. The “SEA” sleuths had planned to place the micro wire in the terrorist skin, an hour before; he would be lured to escape from our custody. My combat soldiers were to prepare themselves for ten days of sustained chase, pursuit and shadow, a lethal military operation. We had to be extra careful, because any giveaway of our plan, and the terrorist would lead us into a trap or ambush.

I had enough time to test and zero my newly acquired Uzi 9mm sub machine gun on our mock target. The “SEA” sleuths had left for their base, to return in the evening, I ordered for a sumptuous lunch feast, once I return from my weapon testing, because you never are sure of a good meal, once launched into dangerous military pursuit operation.

Everything was going as per our tactical plan. The terrorist would be served his meal by the soldier guard, who after leaving the meal plate, will deliberately leave the latch of the room open and disappear from sight. The terrorist, on discovering the open latch, would peep outside, and would learn to his surprise that the guard, by mistake has left the latch open and presume to his enchantment, that the base is either asleep or lax. The temptation, however doubtful, is enough for a desperate terrorist to escape, even though he is bare clothes.

I had withheld the information of this prized catch from my higher Head Quarters. A theoretical practice, where you claim achievement, by such declaration to your senior and who does the same, going up in the chain of command. The unfortunate requirement of the office bound commanders; professionalism should demand gainful and meaningful results. Well! I was made of different mettle, never going for childish pat or thrill.

THE TERRORIST BIT THE BAIT 

As anticipated, speculated, predicted and predestine the terrorist fell for our bait, he escaped, in the direction and style, I was waiting and had planned to tackle. The “SEA” sleuths had done their job well; the tracking system was in place and working. My combat outfit was ready, for on foot Stealth Pursuit. A military special operation requiring a thorough professionalism, training, dedication and grit with resolute resolve was now rolling.

It was almost midnight when the terrorist slipped out of our base; he was without clothes, in clean clear birthday suit.

We knew that he would possibly attempt to enter the first available house to arrange for his clothes. As it seem impossible for anyone, to move in a populated town; in spite of late night, totally nude.  

The hardcore chap was a bundle of surprise and shock; he surprised us, and did nothing like that, in fact the terrorist scoot at a speed unimaginable. He traversed twenty km before day break, bare foot and without clothes.

My combat outfit was equally a bundle of big surprise; we were highly trained in all aspects of special commando operations. Combat operational run with full military equipment; of 8, 10, 16, 24 and 32 Km in excellent army timings; as per military parlance, was in our muscle and blood. We were trained to shoot and kill while running; If encountered by an unarmed combat option, we were the most lethal and dangerous lot. Howsoever fast or sly the pursued terrorist was he was being chased by a young Indian Army Major Rakesh Dubey, Vir chakra and his ferociously dangerous outfit. He had very few options to escape from us, the odds, of which he was not aware.

We were ten heavily armed combat soldiers on foot to pursue the terrorist under surveillance. Like Arjun, the silhouette of the terrorist being chased was the only vision in our eyes, connected with all possible dangers which we could encounter in the mission. Equal number of more heavily armed combat soldiers were keeping pace with us on the nearby roads, traversing on two specially designed open combat vehicles. The hand held tracking device was fixed on the strap of my belt. The “SEA” sleuths initially wanted to be on foot with us, but then they were wise to realize the physical fatigue and danger of life, if fire fight took place; an eventuality which was most likely. They therefore, were far behind, in their specialized vehicle fixed with specialized equipment, keeping equal track of the subject in question and remaining in communication with me, all the time.

FIRST BREAKTHROUGH

The puzzle, that the pursued terrorist had run for almost 20 Km, for almost 5 hours, and had not entered any house, en route, was intriguing for my military training and knowledge. It was all the more interesting and mysterious, as the terrorist had made no effort to arrange for covering himself with any type of cloth or clothes. The surprise which was to follow, the development which unfolded, much before we could further dwell on this thought, gave us the required answer. However, the revelation of clarity, truth and reasons of his hurry, almost took our life.

It was almost day break; it had probably rained that night in the area, with chill and wetness palpable all over, the smell and sound of sea was also extremely near. Due to this sudden change in the weather, visibility continued to be poor. I took a cursory look at my combat outfit, they seem extremely robust fit and fine. We were running positioning our self on either side of the road, in proper lethal combat formation; I was in the front, led by two scouts, who were tasked to reconnoiter the route, as directed, based on the tracking device, held by me. 20 Km is quite a fortitude distance to run, with extremely heavy military equipment and load, remember we were in combat operational readiness for 7-10 days of sustained fighting. A tough combat training of my special operationally trained combat infantry soldiers, was keeping us going without any sign of fatigue and disinterest. Also five hours was a long duration for a prolonged chase giving no indication of any possible result? A question was now disturbing me, where is this terrorist taking us? Although I had faced and experienced such situations in many earlier military combat actions, and therefore, I knew, patience and calmness was the only mantra. The teachings of revered holy Gita was the sole guide to be practiced in such situations; and were my strength. My combat soldiers, my trusted troops were also followers of the virtues of revered Gita, and therefore were military warrior of prowess.                   

The danger and vagaries of such fluid specialized commando military operation, is fraught with unforeseen uncertainties and reality. The pursuit hit a dead end; the leading scout stood surrounded by walls of houses all round, with no road or alley leading out from that place, a very dangerous situation, we were being lure into, at that moment. The tracking device was indicating, that the terrorist was somewhere in the direction ahead. It was surprising, if that is the case, where had he vanished?

We had positioned ourselves into combat weapon firing with wide angle observation of  military formation; stood with our back to the wall, weapon poised, and each soldier covering, his front and designated clock direction. Not an area was left uncovered. The two leading scouts were moving forward, inch by inch covering each others move, to exploit and to explore the situation and carefully study the picture ahead.

My orders were clear to my combat soldiers; the terrorist under pursuit will not be killed at any cost, till the tracking device is functioning, or until I give orders to the contrary; a big constraint imposed, a burden placed by me, on my combat soldiers. The reason and logic was simple, the dreaded terrorist had yield no information during interrogation, but now it was my tactical assumption, that the terrorist will certainly lead us into their big camp or a big catch. It is on this premise, I had undertaken this big military exercise, the catalyst and acceleration to my specialized commando military pursuit, was provided by “SEA” Sleuths, and their tracking device. My military tactical presumption was being validated, by the terrorist determined and dogged reach to some designated goal and aim. I was a deadly and highly trained combat soldier; danger did not dissuade but motivated me to take up dreadful challenge.

The peculiar situation in front, was a presentiment of an impasse, but for me it was an adrenaline rush, and a thrilling challenge, a dangerous encounter, I enjoyed as a military commander. The battle reading of the situation indicated, proximity to some major fire fight, if we probe further. The terrorist was nearby, hiding, after marrying with his group. In all probability, the terrorist and his group, had a larger aim/ design, and therefore wanted no military encounter and fire fight with us; they would only pounce, if their annihilation was inevitable by our hands.

THE LIGHTENING STRIKE 

The commotion and zing, popping of a armed, rugged and weather beaten tough man, on top of the wall in front; was too evident to be missed by anyone. This sudden, lightening appearance of the terrorist, his emergence on top of a 20 feet wall, facing and blocking us; was certainly unexpected, a shock effect, if we were novice soldiers. Fortunately, it was a challenge, my combat outfit always enjoyed and loved to encounter. We were highly trained military professionals, always prepared to deal with such situations, without grimace or shock.

The actions of my lethal combat outfit were thereafter, calibrated and robotic. Each soldier had his area and direction to dominate and engage target to eliminate and kill. This he would do, in order to ensure safety of the entire team and to remove any hindrances to our aim. The entire combat team noticed the target terrorist on top of the wall in front, the decision to engage target to apprehend or kill, has to be in Split Seconds. The responsibility to engage target this time was specifically mine and that, of the two leading scouts, other combat team member were to remain alert watching their own area of dominance.

The first and foremost responsibility, of me and my leading two scouts was to confirm the identity of this terrorist, whether, he was the one which we were tracking or was he, some other terrorist. The terrorist, under our chase and pursuit, was not to be killed, unless of course, he gets dangerous to our survival and safety. The time to react and deal with this situation, as available with us; was just few split seconds, in fact as per our calculation, our time latitude was over, and therefore, we had to act and act fast.

The terrorist was within, approximately 100 meters range of our lethal weapons fire. We were a dangerous combat group; this message and this fact were already known to these terrorist, and therefore, he was now aware, that a zero possibility, was available to him for any escape from this situation. Surrender or get killed, he surely would be contemplatively and thinking in his state, at this moment. My number one scout indicated that this was a different terrorist. We were menacingly poised and positioned with our weapons raised in firing position, to shoot, to kill.

The terrorist could have avoided his end, but then, Yamraj, the God of Death; starts hovering over your head once your end is inevitable, the terrorist raised his weapon to fire. He was holding American M16 assault rifle, a weapon of higher velocity, range and rate of fire, much deadlier than our AK 47 assault rifle, my second weapon, Micro Uzi 9mm sub machine gun, was out of question in this fight. I and my two scouts fired simultaneously, from our AK 47 assault rifles, the weapons already held by us, in firing position, we were marksman, an excellent shot, by all account.

The scale of confidence and standard of our training was amply demonstrated, with just three single shots fired, and all three hitting the Adams Apple of the terrorist, it punctured the vertebrae damaging his spinal cord, his neck snap to one side, just hanging onto his body attached by a straw of food pipe. The terrorist was killed instantaneously by volley of three shots, bang on his Adams Apple; and whatever life remained, was taken when he fell, onto the hard ground 20 feet below from the top; like a log of wood, rubbing with bump and scratch against the wall during the fall.   

We did not move or expose our self; we remained positioned in our safe confines, waiting for any reaction from the enemy. That was our military drill. Nothing happened, and there was no movement anywhere, a total and unusual silence was noticed in the area.

It was almost 1 minute of wait, the scouts sprung into action, I ran to join them, with the other combat team members, keeping us under cover by sight and fire if necessary. The terrorist was dead, picking his M16 assault rifle, an American service weapon; I ordered my soldier, to carry out complete physical search of the dead terrorist. The rifle magazine was full, with 30 rounds intact, we were too fast for him to act, he did not realize, that we were professional, highly and specially trained combat soldiers. The terrorist surely failed to fathom our strength, which resulted in his tragic end.

We were professional soldiers, never killed anyone for thrill; in most cases the enemy invited his death by provocation.

On further search, of the terrorist belongings; 60 more rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, along with few biscuit packets and one cyanide capsule hanging by his neck, were found.

The M16 assault rifle was a good catch, along with total 90 rounds of 5.56mm ammunition, a weapon which was brand new in condition; added one more enemy weapon trophy to our assorted armory.

CREDENCE TO MY ASSUMPTION AND ACTION

The visibility was still poor; surprisingly no movement of residents of that area was palpable, even after the automatic weapon fire, and killing of terrorist; which had disturbed the dead silence of the serene surrounding. The mysterious appearance of this new terrorist and disappearance of the terrorist being chased added more complexity, to our ongoing military operation.    

The dead terrorist and the prevailing impasse were major problems in my hand at this moment. Having already lost two to three minutes of our valuable time, in the encounter killing of the terrorist, I had no further scope and freedom now, to cause any more delay or fall into any tactical stall of the enemy.

I ordered my two leading scouts, to carry out deliberate probe and search of the facing wall and the area in front, for possible way out. There has to be some route or penetration available, “it was certainly, not an impregnable impasse”? I told my determined soldiers.

The enemy dead, are always, an unwanted problem in any military operations, however, we always respect the enemies dead, and give them the deserved end.    

My other combat team members were still in their combat position, ready to pounce to fire and kill, if need arose.

The leading scout, were frantically groping in poor light and visibility, to find answer to the disappearing act of our target terrorist. The tracking device was continuously ticking to indicate, that the terrorist was somewhere very near to our location.

MIRACLE HAPPEN 

On closer scrutiny and by physical touch and checking of the wall, the wall; which was holding our progress; unbelievable discovery was made. An unusual alignment of protruding bricks and small wood pegs, as steps; an architectural ingenuity was miraculously discovered. A deceiving stair case, very intelligently camouflaged, had been erected, which conveniently merge with the background.

My scouts were already in position, on top of the wall, followed by me and others, systematically reaching on top, one by one; creating space, by gradually descending, into the opening below on the other side.

The foolhardy bravado, to travel across, was very much calculated, a tactical assessment based on the fact, that after we had eliminated the terrorist, who had unsuspectingly appeared on top of the wall in front; there was no counter reaction from the other side at all. It was therefore evident, that the terrorist group had no intention of fierce fire fight. They seem to be heading to fulfill an aim of very large magnitude. A determined lot; the terrorist whom we were chasing was presumably, a very important member of their group, and therefore, his marrying up with them was their only desire at that moment. It was amply clear now, that the terrorist, in whatever number they were, were heading for some major operation or task, to some other location. 
    

THE TERRORIST HAD A LARGER DESIGN 

My combat group was precariously positioned, few on top of the wall and majority in the open space on the other side. We were in combat firing position, ready for action; standing, facing an open door, the door presumably giving entry into a big room and house. The indications gave no sign of anybody being inside. However, we had to enter without wasting much time; the time which was extremely short and not in our favor at that moment. The entry was to be exercised without fire of weapons, a tactical disadvantage, for being in very close proximity to compact residential locality.

In close quarter battle, for entry into the confines of a constricted constraint of a room, irrespective of its size; was a specialized military action, generally executed by firing automatic weapons, having heavy rate of fire. To execute this task, without firing, was an extremely difficult option, a challenge, a situational requirement, which we were fortunately trained to undertake.

The initial penetration in the room was achieved by my leading scouts crawling inside, fanning sideways to check possibility of laid string wires of bobby traps. As experienced many a times by us, terrorist generally bobby trapped the area before extricating. It was also my experience that even light switches worked as trigger to Improvised Explosive Device (IED), placed as bobby trap, to target soldiers entering constricted and narrow areas. It was therefore, a total caution and alertness, was at premium in our action. My extremely professional combat soldiers reached the furthest end of the target house, facing no resistance or encountering, any kind of bobby trap in their endeavor. However, the light switches, were still remained to be declared safe, as trigger mechanism, to IEDs.

The first step in that direction was to demolish or remove all kind and type of false roofing, paneling, and any suspect item, which can hide an IED.

MILITARY COBWEB

Handling to defuse IEDs, which have been activated and placed, hidden to trigger a blast, is a highly professional job, and can be undertaken only by specially trained combat soldiers. The combat soldiers, who made my team, were proficient, in all aspects of deadly and dangerous skills of such commando operations. We had secured the house, from all other dangers except of course, from the threat of IED blast, keeping that in mind, only my two scouts, and myself remained inside. The remaining seven of my ferocious combat soldiers, were outside the threat of IED, and were frantically looking for some way and entry into the false roofing from top. The electricity connection to the house was severed from the pole outside, this was to prevent trigger of IED by the terrorist, using electronic detonation. Inside we damaged all electric switches, cutting all wire connection and electric wiring in the house; we were also taking a calculated risk, by systematically and cautiously removing limited paneling inside and checking all boxes, cupboard and show cases.

It was then; I heard my combat soldiers acknowledge, that they had found an opening to enter the false roof from outside, and wanted my approval to execute entry onto the delicate false roofing structure, to defuse the possible IEDs. My combat team on vehicles was in position covertly encircling and surrounding the built up area, where I was operating; to provide protection against any rebound attack by the terrorist outfit, which now supposedly, stood reasonably exposed, hindered and delayed in their larger design.

Since my combat soldiers were attempting entry onto the false roof from outside, I ordered my two scouts inside, to clear the area below the false roof. I also took safe position in the secure corner of the house. I then ordered my men to enter, onto the false roof; we could hear the tapping sound of a gradual crawl, of my combat troops; on all four limbs, on top, we could also count the number of soldiers, now inside, over our head. One, two, and third soldier, and we heard the false roof croak and crack under the heavy soldiers weight, I shouted to caution my soldiers, and ordered them to stop any further progress. A total silence followed, I ordered my soldiers to first check and confirm, through our powerful, military torch light, whether, it was worth to undertake any further exploration inside. The false roof structure, it appeared, will not be able to hold the weight of my three combat soldiers; I sensed a threat of injury to my combat troops, if they happen to fall inadvertently from the top, “Do you see anything”? I shouted. They were already few minutes on, carrying out thorough, investigation and examination with the powerful torch light. “Yes Sir”! They replied back, “We are coming down and will brief you in detail Sir”

The noise of a powerful kick, of military boots on the panel little ahead, from above our head, was heard; our attention was immediately drawn, in that direction, I could see six legs hanging in air, from opening which was created, by the soldiers boot kick, on the false roof. The three combat soldiers soft landed, with gymnastic ease and expertise, on the room floor right in front of me, they appeared confident and satisfied, and therefore I knew, the information, they are going to divulge to me was worth a million.

The “SEA” sleuths gave frantic call to me, to inform, that the terrorist under our pursuit, was still within 1 Km distance from where we were now. My tracking device was also giving similar information. I was professionally trained, a thorough bred dangerous combat soldier, with my military knowledge and experience, I was confident, that the terrorist, would go nowhere till sunset. The sea Jetty was very near, from where we were, at this moment, and I was sure the terrorist, under our pursuit, had dangerous and clandestine interest at sea, of scale and magnitude probably unimaginable, to any normal soldier. We, therefore, under no circumstances, were complacent, our attention, all the time remained, in tracking the movement of this terrorist, his action and activities indicated, that he would remain, a man of importance in this entire stealth pursuit operation. The terrorist under our pursuit was holding key to most vital information of their Main Group, and he was one of their very important member. 
 

MACKENNA'S GOLD  

The successful military excursion, inside the hollow precinct, of the false roof; to probe for IEDs, seems to have given some conclusive findings to my three thoroughly professional combat soldiers. The combat soldiers, therefore, appeared totally satisfied, as they stood, after landing safely in front of me. It was now my immediate and primary concern to debrief the combat soldiers straightaway. Any delay in the debriefing drill, can cause memory loss and fading, of some very important information and valuable vital clue, which the soldiers may have gained; the knowledge of which may appear trivial; but may be of immense value and importance, to the ongoing military operations.

My attention, putting aside the situation consternation; was immediately focused on the three combat soldiers, to gain information, which they had obtained and were eagerly waiting to divulge to me. The combat soldiers were therefore immediately summoned, for a straight question, and the answer to my query, was unbelievable, astounding and a bolt from the blue. My thoroughly professional combat soldiers, the soldiers highly trained for all kind of dangerous military action, were themselves spellbound with their findings. I could not believe my ears. The information, and the knowledge, that hollow precinct, of the false roof on top was full of large plastic packets filled with some foreign country paper currency notes, kept neatly packed and stashed on top; was unbelievable, to my thinking.

It was now absolutely clear, and I could easily deduce with my military training and knowledge, that the terrorist, under no possible circumstances would have placed any IED or booby trap for blast. The hidden currency consignment was extremely valuable to their future course of action, and therefore the terrorist would never risk losing their booty, by any kind of foolish act or action.

The entire pursuit operation had taken an unusual turn, the latest discovery, was never ever expected, and the surprise effect was absolute. The terrorist group, who had accidentally come under our Radar and Surveillance, must also be in a state of total concussion, with multitude of quick military action and developments; in fact we, our self were slightly in, imbalance. The terrorist group, may be in a state of denial, and will never acknowledge, that my dangerous combat soldiers have the capability, and would have, or would reach their hidden treasure any time. Whatever may be the strength and value of the booty, which was concealed in hollow precinct of the false roof; to us, it certainly was of immense importance to the terrorist.         

The onerous task of shifting the colossal number of plastic packets, containing paper banknotes, was expected to take, a big chunk of our limited time availability. The clock time as per the country time zone stood at 1000 hours (10 AM) of the day. We therefore had time only till sunset at our disposal; because after dark, our entire attention and energy would be drawn by the terrorist, who was under our trail and pursuit. The tracking device was constantly indicating that the said terrorist, was present, fixed at one particular location till now, making no effort whatsoever, to move out. The terrorist had amply demonstrated, by his entire resolute act, till now, that he was physically extremely fit, with strong will, was determined, but under tremendous pressure to complete a very important assignment, and for which he seem to be running out of time. It was therefore, the terrorist seem to be operating, in total reckless manner, unconcerned of any danger or death. He sure was a formidable enemy, a challenge, which we were thoroughly enjoying, as professional lethal soldiers.      

Total 50 neatly packed heavy, plastic packets, were recovered from the false roofing structure above. The paper currency bank notes were all in American $100 dollar bills. To count each and every plastic packet bundle, was certainly not an easy task, and each packet seem identical and equal in size and shape. My military acumen, was being challenged in different field altogether. I had no desire and inclination to waste my precious military operational time, in making my combat soldiers, to sit and count paper bank notes. The requirement to ascertain rough estimate of the total American currency booty was considered adequate at the moment. I, as a thoroughly professional military leader, therefore had to evolve, the best possible method of counting of banknotes, keeping the constraint of available time frame in mind.     

The best way, I therefore calculated, to establish a reasonable amount of accurate counting account; was to count the total dollar contents of one plastic packet, and thereafter ascertain its exact weight. This would give dollar weight ratio, of one plastic packet, keeping that as a standard accounting scale, weigh other plastic packets, the proportionate weight, would give dollar contents of each plastic packet, and the sum total of all 50 packets, would give the entire amount of American dollars.

SECRET BEST KEPT

The “SEA” sleuths, accompanying us, in this operation; were unaware of our activities, thus having no clue, of what we were doing here. Their inquisitiveness, howsoever prevailing, was subdued and not dominant, for fear of getting embroiled in a fire fight, if they joined or venture close to us. The combat operational requirement, also did not permit, any one, unprepared for severe gun battle fire fight, to come in our close vicinity; joining us for fun ride, was therefore out of question. The “SEA” sleuth, were aware of this dangerous fact, and therefore wisely opt, to stay away from us, keeping themselves at safe distance, much far behind.

The “SEA” sleuth, in their wild imagination, could never ever visualize the detection and discovery of treasure of such large magnitude, and were therefore, not suspicious of anything at all. This valuable treasure was certainly of immense value to the terrorist. The “SEA” would also willingly jump to get hold of this, if given an option; however this would only, be war booty for them and nothing else. My tactical premonition was strongly indicating to me, to keep the treasure with my combat outfit, and disclose and give information and knowledge of this to none.

I was a thoroughly professional, a seasoned, and a war experienced combat soldiers, always operated with my head and not heart, military logic and reasoning and tactical requirement dominate my planning and thinking. It was therefore, very clear in my mind, that the unknown amount of American currency bank notes, which we had unearth, the exact count of which was yet to be established; will remain in my combat outfit’s custody. The freedom and latitude, to take such decision and action, was only with me, and nobody else; during this lethal military operation. The money in question was also colossal, and probably beyond comprehension of any logical thinking, and therefore many questions now required answers. It was vehemently prudent for any military leader to ascertain its exact source and the reason, of it being in the hands of these dreaded terrorists? Also, the terrorists aim and how and where they planned to utilize this booty? It was also intriguing, and perplexing, and I was therefore inquisitive to learn; as to how, such a huge amount of paper currency, American bank notes was shifted inside this small house, and could be kept concealed, secretly, for duration unknown. The answers to these questions were very important to us, especially when the combat environment, in which we were operating, was extremely volatile and dangerous. It was therefore essential to keep the information and knowledge of this gigantic booty, as secret from the “SEA”. A secret best kept, for further progress of our dangerous and deadly military operation. The subsequent serial Parts, of “Operation Cobra” will unveil the ultimate, de jure culmination of this booty.

BILLION DOLLAR SERENDIPITY

I had not seen money in such a large amount, in any form, till date. The sight, of American paper bank notes, placed in plastic packet stack strewn all over in total unaccounted manner, was unbelievable. The encounter was unusual and exhilarated the level of excitement and thrill of the combat soldiers, a state of mind having tendency to set in total complacency, in any combat fighting outfit. This was a dangerous situation, for my combat troops, and I feared, it would affect their sustained and determined fighting capability. It therefore became my immediate mandate and compulsion, to take urgent steps, to remove my lethal combat soldiers, from this state and the momentary, ongoing non combat role.

The counting of American $100 dollar bill contents, of one plastic packet was already in progress. In this interim time, when the counting was being completed, I decided to summon my JCO in charge, of communication net work. The orders were required to be passed to my Operation Base approximately 20 KM away, to dispatch a covert mobile combat party, to collect the American cash booty, and to shift it, secretly to the base; for safe keep, awaiting my further orders. The ten heavily armed combat soldiers, the combat outfit on foot with me, was urgently required to be relieved from this non combat role of counting and accounting the American bank notes.

The time seem to be moving at a very fast pace, my Army issue black dial HMT, wrist watch, was indicating time as 1200hours at noon. I felt slightly relaxed, the operation was progressing, mathematically, counting of American bank notes was on; the mobile covert combat team to collect the cash booty was on its way, from my Base; and more importantly, the “SEA” sleuth were, quietly in position much far behind, totally convinced and satisfied and unconcerned with the ongoing military operations.

In the meanwhile, I ordered, my combat outfit, to devour their lunch, similar orders were also communicated to the combat troops who were aboard, the menacing combat vehicles, covertly in position, tactically, encircling the house, the place, where we were operating at present. The day’s pre-cooked meals were being carried by us on our haversack. The “SEA” sleuth, I could presume would have already enjoyed their lunch by now, and I was also sure, that they must be carrying in their vehicle many more eatable to munch.

The counting of one plastic packet, containing American $100 dollars paper bank notes, was now complete; my combat soldiers who were proficiently apt in handling dangerous weapons, and lethal military equipment; somehow managed, to momentarily and smoothly, switch to this new role of paper currency counting. However, the drill of counting American dollar notes had taken an unusual long time, the reason probably was, inexperience and extra caution by my combat soldiers, to ensure, there was no mistake. The result, was interesting, the plastic packet, contained, exactly 2 lakh dollars, and the packet approximately weigh 2 kg, the random weighing of other 49 plastic packets, containing similar amount of currency, established, that almost all the packets weigh 2 kg.

The total value of the American dollars, in all 50 plastic packets, was bewildering, and incomprehensibly huge. The simple thought of the total amount, was scary; to blurt the colossal figure, seem exciting. The serendipity, which I seem to be blessed with, was catalyst, in stimulating our luck, and possibly the reason; we could discover and excavate a war fortune of level unimaginable, the total amount being exceedingly enormous. We were a group of thorough bred dangerous and lethal combat soldiers, rich in all aspect of military fighting, but fortunately, lacking in the greed, and desire for any kind of affluence; therefore, money was never a matter of issue, in our happy life; this probably may be the reason, of our extreme difficulty, to mathematically calculate and comprehend the exact and total value of the American paper currency bank notes, in the 50 plastic packets. My combat soldiers had carried out this non-combat role extremely well and with total sincerity, giving me the feedback and the count of the amount, the responsibility therefore to calculate, or for that matter assume the exact total, rest with me. I was myself a dangerous combat soldier, on a definite mission; adequately unqualified, to be a Chartered Accountant, as also, not inclined, to unnecessarily put my head into any mathematical wizardry. It suffices me to understand, that the booty was a billion dollar serendipity, and I was satisfied with that answer, at that moment.

LIKE ARJUN WE REVERT TO PURSUE OUR AIM

The message that the mobile combat team from the base had arrived, and was in position nearby, awaiting my orders to enter; for collection of the billion dollars booty, was communicated to me by my JCO. I realized, at that moment; that it was tactically not prudent to clutter the area with excessive, lethal combat soldiers. I therefore, ordered my foot combat team to properly pack the entire American 100 dollar bill 50 packets, into a manageable convenient load, a load, I ordered, to be presented, in a manner, that it does not give away the exact contents, to cause suspicion; in the minds of any casual onlooker.

It was decided that, we would breach a small hole, on the base of the 20ft wall, with a deceiving stair case, which we had scaled to enter the house; to slip the consignment of American dollar packets, surreptitiously, to the mobile combat team from the base; guided and ordered, to approach the house from that direction, the plan, we executed, without much delay, and with extreme smoothness. Thereafter, and without much fuss, my lethal combat team on foot tactically melted, by swiftly, moving out from the front main door, onto the street in front of the house. The entire action was completed with the professionalism and astuteness, as deserving of a highly trained battle hardened combat military outfit.

We were now onto the street in front of the house; across the road was the jetty, on the massive Indian Ocean. The chase, pursuit and shadow lethal military operation was resumed; my lethal combat team on foot, consisting of 10 heavily armed combat soldiers; along with me, and the equal number of dangerously and lethally armed combat soldiers, on menacingly modified open combat jeep, were in position, moving little behind, some distance away from us. The tracking device indicated, the terrorist under pursuit was inside, one of the construction shed on the jetty. The “SEA” sleuth had moved their modified vehicle, in front, to join me near the jetty. The time now, as per my military issue watch was almost 1600 hours, enough time, I calculated was with us, before sunset; to plan our next move.

MARINE COMMANDO’S (MARCOS) 

We were aware of a big camp site at the corner of the jetty; in any case, it was too obvious a cluster, to go unnoticed, on the sea front. “MARCOS” a menacing outfit from the Indian Navy, was certainly making their existence felt, in the ongoing deadly commando operations in the region. Well! I had no desire, intention or inclination, to draw their attention or role in my ongoing commando military operation; I therefore, expressed my surprise, and slight annoyance, to the “SEA” Sleuths, for coming alongside with me in open. Any, inadvertent, loose and casual move by us, can draw attention and interest, of a thoroughly professional outfit like “MARCOS” and had all likelihood, at this stage, to jeopardize, our, equally, highly risky and death defying, terrorist chase, pursuit and shadow military action. Too many specialized military outfit, in a single commando action; at times, gets counterproductive, to the benefit, of the adversary; an eventuality, is always best, to avoid.

The jetty was humming with usual, fishing boat activities of fisherman and fishmongers. The fishnet folding, before the fishing trawler, was to venture out into the sea for night fishing, was underway. The sea side restaurant, were also full to the brim with customers, the usual patron being, few tourists, Seafaring folks and fisherman. Surprising, as it appeared, that life within few 100 meter, of our major military action, seem calm and composed, equally surprising was the fact, that even “MARCOS” did not seem to know anything, they seem totally unaware, of our achievement, just a short distance away from their location. This spoke volumes of our professionalism, and was therefore, a critical acclaim of our military commando combat action by stealth.

THE TERRORIST HAD VAULT OF INFORMATION

My military assumption and all possible indication on ground, suggested, that the terrorist, who was under our chase and pursue, was in know, of a big terrorist plan, and the epicenter, the ground zero, of the activity was this jetty. It was also evidently clear, that the American dollar booty, as recovered by us; and which was kept concealed so close to the jetty, had important connection with their clandestine design.

It was this military assumption, arrived after systematic and deliberate, war gaming in my mind that gave me confidence, that the terrorist, who was under our surveillance, would not leave his present location, on the jetty.

We, though tactically deployed, and in lethal combat position, along the higher side of the road, hugging the built up area; were conveniently overlooking the jetty, on the other side of the sea facing road; and therefore, were suitably placed to monitor, all the activities on the jetty and its surrounding areas. The plot was picture perfect; the time was closer to sunset, and therefore was the right setting and time, for the terrorist to make a move. This terrorist group was highly and dangerously trained, and therefore, in all possibility, they may be in strength in that location, but would never make any casual or loose move, to give away anything.

Time was running against us now. After darkness, to track and neutralize any offensive move of the terrorist would be slightly risky, especially, in the crowded jetty area. Any collateral damage therefore, in such operations gets counterproductive, and always causes delay, to all the future connected military actions.

I had no choice but to act, before complete darkness; to initiate, immediate offensive move and action in the direction of the terrorist being pursued, because, once the terrorist moves out, in some boat into the sea, there was all the possibility, that we would lose his trail almost completely. The “SEA” Sleuths were moved far behind, away from the jetty; that, once I had expressed my displeasure, when they had moved in front to join me, on the road facing the jetty. My mobile combat team on heavily armed, three open jeeps, were within my visual distance, and therefore, were always available for any combat move, if situation demanded.

We made our move, by stepping outside, from our partially concealed position, crossing the road, we entered the jetty. The combat team on open jeep was ordered to take position on the road, it was now almost darkness, and therefore, nobody was able to fathom our aim and intention; in fact none paid any attention, it looked like routine action. We headed straight in the direction, of the shed, where the terrorist, hopefully, was still positioned. The tracking device, was also indicating the same, however, one can never be 100% confident of technology. The device was working efficiently, not failing for a moment till now and therefore I had no reason to doubt its capability.

The construction on the jetty, did not give us much scope for free maneuvering, we were almost walking in extended line, however, the jetty lights, were enough to guide us safely to the target or else, there was chance possibility, of falling into the dirty, murky, and rough sea, along the jetty.

The shed, with the terrorist inside, was now, right in front, a distance, just few steps away. The noise of sea waves hitting the jetty, combined with throttle sound of trawlers and the darkness, had set in complacency, in the mind of the terrorist hiding in the shed. Or weapons were fixed bayonet, my Micro Uzi 9mm Sub Machine Gun, was in my hand, in firing position, ready to fire to kill.

A TOUGH DECISION TO ACCOST THE TERRORIST

We were in position, surrounding the shed, our movement, went unnoticed, undetected, the movement so close to the shed, was by stealth, the terrorist was in for a big surprise and shock. I was to enter the shed first and accost the terrorist head on, many questions needed answers, and the man inside, “the terrorist”, was the only one who had all the reply.

In split seconds, the scene took a dramatic and drastic turn; there was sudden and unexpected commotion inside the shed. My ten combat soldiers, heavily armed and dangerous in all combat aspect, were in position, providing zero possibility to the terrorist/ terrorists inside to escape. This sudden movement inside, gave enough impetus and worked as catalyst, and in fraction of a second, the shed door was burst open, by my two leading scouts. The two leading scouts, firing simultaneously, a volley of burst automatic fire stepped aside, making way for my entry, inside the shed.

I entered, holding my Micro Uzi 9mm Sub Machine Gun; in combat mode to fire for effect, it was dark inside, in the silhouette, I could count four heads. In the melee, the terrorist, who was being pursued, stood frozen inside, right in front of me, with a weapon in hand to fire. In such a close combat fight, the man who fires first survives.

WHAT HAPPENED NEXT??? WILL BE REVEALED IN PART-II “OPERATION COBRA”

IN FLUID AND DANGEROUS CLOSE COMBAT FIGHT, YOU SHOOT FIRST AND THAN THINK. IF YOU THINK FIRST AND THAN SHOOT, YOU ARE DEAD.