Security Forces Engage in Intense Anti-Terror Operation in Kathua; 3 Jaish Militants Trapped

Kathua, J&K: The Indian Army’s Rising Star Corps, along with Jammu and Kashmir Police and CRPF, launched a large-scale search and destroy operation in Kathua’s Panjtirthi area on Tuesday morning following intelligence about terrorist movement.

This operation comes just days after a fierce gunfight in Kathua left two terrorists and four policemen dead, while several others, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police, were injured.

Encounter Erupts After Suspicious Movement
Late Monday night, security forces detected suspicious activity in Panjtirthi, leading to an initial exchange of fire. By Tuesday morning, a full-scale operation was underway, with the Rising Star Corps confirming the action in a post on X.

As of now, three Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists are believed to be trapped near Panjtirthi temple in Billawar.

“Operation Will Continue Till Last Terrorist is Neutralized”: DIG

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Shiv Kumar Sharma* vowed that the operation would persist until all militants are eliminated. Urging locals to remain vigilant, he said, “As long as even one terrorist remains, J&K Police will not relent. We are committed to rooting out terrorism and ensuring peace.”

Speaking to reporters in Reasi, DIG Sharma paid tribute to a fallen jawan in the recent Kathua encounter, stating, “Our brave personnel sacrificed their lives to secure Jammu and Kashmir. Their loss pains us, but our morale remains unshaken.”

He emphasized the forces’ high-level training and determination, adding, “Our jawans are fighting with unmatched courage. We will never back down.”

Aerial Surveillance, Sniffer Dogs Deployed
Security forces have intensified combing operations, using drones and sniffer dogs to track down the militants. Meanwhile, six individuals have been detained for suspected links to terrorists who escaped an earlier encounter.

DIG Sharma later visited the family of the martyred soldier, saluting his sacrifice: “These heroes laid down their lives for a safer Jammu and Kashmir. We stand firm in our resolve.”

The operation remains ongoing as security forces tighten the noose around the trapped militants.

Key Points:
3 Jaish terrorists trapped in Kathua’s Billawar area.
Search & destroy op launched after night-time exchange of fire.
DIG vows to continue till last militant is eliminated.
Aerial surveillance, arrests made in connection with the operation.
-Forces’ morale high despite recent casualties.