Tensions escalated in Jammu & Kashmir’s Kathua district after an encounter between security forces and terrorists near the International Border. A local woman, Anita Devi, recounted her terrifying escape as the terrorists held her husband at gunpoint. Security forces launched a massive operation after reports suggested infiltrators had crossed over from Pakistan and taken shelter in a dense nursery. A fierce gunfight erupted, with nearly 250 rounds fired, triggering panic in the village. While no casualties have been reported, the search operation continues as authorities remain on high alert to prevent further infiltration.
A chilling account has emerged from Jammu & Kashmir’s Kathua district, where an encounter between security forces and terrorists unfolded on Sunday. Anita Devi, a local witness, recounted the harrowing ordeal when the terrorists held her husband at gunpoint while she narrowly escaped. The incident has heightened tensions in the region, with security forces launching a large-scale operation to neutralize the infiltrators.
The operation was initiated after intelligence reports suggested that terrorists had crossed the border and taken shelter in a dense nursery near Sanyal village, located just five kilometers from the International Border with Pakistan. As security forces advanced into the area, they were met with intense gunfire, leading to a fierce exchange. Additional reinforcements were quickly deployed to fortify the operation and prevent any escape attempts by the terrorists.
Anita Devi, 48, recalled the terrifying moment when the terrorists confronted her and her husband. “They were holding my husband at gunpoint and signaled me to come closer, but he subtly motioned for me to escape. As I started running, one of the terrorists attempted to stop me. I screamed, drawing the attention of two locals nearby who were cutting grass,” she recounted in an interview with PTI. Her quick thinking and alertness helped her evade the attackers, while security forces moved in to counter the threat.
District Development Councillor Karan Kumar described the atmosphere in the village as tense and fearful. “The presence of terrorists has instilled fear among the locals. We heard around 250 rounds of intense gunfire,” he stated.
According to officials, the terrorists are suspected to have infiltrated the region on Saturday, possibly using a newly dug tunnel or navigating through rugged ravines. Intelligence reports also indicate that two separate groups of terrorists, each comprising five to six operatives, may have entered the area. The ongoing search operation aims to track and eliminate any remaining threats.
Despite the heavy exchange of fire lasting nearly thirty minutes, authorities have confirmed that no casualties have been reported so far. Security forces have since tightened the cordon around the area, implementing reinforcements to prevent the terrorists from escaping. The situation remains volatile, and efforts continue to ensure the safety of residents and neutralize any remaining threats.
As the operation unfolds, the incident underscores the persistent security challenges in border areas and the vigilance required to counter infiltration attempts. The authorities remain on high alert, with intelligence agencies closely monitoring developments to prevent further escalations in the region.
