Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir intensified their counterterrorism operations on Friday, killing one terrorist in Kishtwar district during an encounter and launching an extensive search for suspected militants in Udhampur’s dense forest areas. Surveillance operations have also expanded to the Bhaderwah region in Doda amid concerns about increased terrorist movement across hilly terrain.
The encounter in Kishtwar began after a joint intelligence-led search operation by the Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police in the Chatru forest area. Troops established contact with the terrorists and engaged them in a firefight. According to the Army’s White Knight Corps, one terrorist was neutralized during the operation despite tough weather and treacherous conditions.
Udhampur Forest Operation Ongoing
Meanwhile, search operations in Udhampur’s Jopher-Marta forests continued for a second day after security forces exchanged fire with a group of terrorists on Wednesday. Officials believe two to three militants are hiding in the region. The operation is being supported by helicopters, drones, and sniffer dogs to track down the suspects, and night cordons have been set up to prevent their escape.
The terrorist killed in Kishtwar is suspected to be part of the Pakistan-based Saifullah module, allegedly responsible for a deadly ambush on an Army team in Doda last year. However, this has not been officially confirmed.
Rising Threat in Jammu Region
Over the last 19 days, five encounters have taken place across Kathua, Udhampur, and Kishtwar districts. Three terrorists have been killed, and four police personnel have died in these operations. Additional injuries were reported among three other officers and a civilian girl.
Security agencies are on high alert as melting snow in high-altitude meadows has opened infiltration routes. Surveillance efforts are being coordinated across Kishtwar, Udhampur, and Kathua, with increased security checks along the Jammu-Srinagar national highway.
Senior Superintendent of Police Amod Ashok Nagpure confirmed the ongoing operation in Udhampur’s Ramnagar area, stating that contact with terrorists had been re-established. Forces remain deployed across high-altitude zones as combing and containment strategies intensify to neutralize the threats.
