A fresh encounter broke out between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district on Thursday morning, leading to the injury of a police officer. The encounter occurred in the Jakhole village of Ghati Juthana area in Rajbagh, about 30 km from the Hiranagar sector, where a previous encounter had taken place on Sunday evening. The ongoing anti-terror operation has entered its fourth day, with reinforcements being deployed to neutralize the terrorists who managed to escape earlier.

Encounter Details and Location

The fresh exchange of gunfire began after security forces spotted the terrorists in the Jakhole village of Ghati Juthana area of Rajbagh, approximately 30 km from Hiranagar sector. This area is close to the International Border (IB) with Pakistan, making it a vulnerable infiltration point for terrorists. According to official sources, reinforcements, including police, army, and paramilitary personnel, were quickly deployed, and an intense exchange of fire was reported from the scene.

Terrorists Believed to Be Part of Escaped Group

The terrorists involved in the fresh encounter are suspected to be part of the same group that managed to escape from the Hiranagar sector after a gunbattle on Sunday evening. Intelligence inputs had indicated the presence of terrorists inside a dhok (a small enclosure used in nurseries) in Sanyal village near the border. Despite a fierce gunfight that lasted for over half an hour, the terrorists had slipped away, triggering a massive search operation by security forces.

Security Forces Launch Massive Search Operation

Since Sunday’s encounter, security forces have been conducting an extensive anti-terror operation in the region. A joint effort involving the police, army, NSG, BSF, and CRPF has been launched, using advanced surveillance equipment such as drones, UAVs, and helicopters to track the terrorists. Bulletproof vehicles, sniffer dogs, and technical equipment have also been deployed in the search operations that extend deep into the Billawar forest and other suspected hideouts.

Discovery of Ammunition and Explosives

On Monday, search parties recovered a cache of weapons and ammunition near the site of the earlier encounter. The recoveries included:

• Four loaded magazines of M4 carbine

• Two grenades

• Bulletproof jacket

• Sleeping bags and tracksuits

• Several packets of eatables

• Polythene bags containing materials for making Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs)

The discovery of these items suggests that the terrorists were well-prepared for a prolonged engagement and had the necessary supplies to sustain themselves during their escape.

DGP and Senior Officers Leading the Operation

Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat has been personally monitoring the situation, camping in Kathua since the operation began. Alongside him, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu Zone Bhim Sen Tuti has been actively leading the anti-terrorist operation. Their presence has boosted the morale of the security forces on the ground and ensured that the search efforts are coordinated effectively.

Infiltration Suspected via Tunnel or Ravine Route

Officials suspect that the terrorists infiltrated the region on Saturday night, using either a ravine route or a newly created tunnel along the International Border (IB). The possibility of infiltration through a tunnel has raised concerns about cross-border terrorist networks and the need for enhanced vigilance along the border areas. Security agencies have intensified their surveillance along the border to detect any further infiltration attempts.

Terror Threats and Growing Security Concerns

The fresh encounter in Kathua comes amid heightened security concerns in the region. Intelligence agencies had earlier warned of terror threats ahead of the upcoming Amarnath Yatra and other important religious and cultural events in the valley. The presence of heavily armed terrorists near the border suggests a larger infiltration plot, which security forces are determined to thwart.

Coordination Between Security Agencies

The ongoing operation highlights the coordinated efforts of various security agencies, including:

• Special Operations Group (SOG) of the police

• Indian Army and its specialized units

• Border Security Force (BSF) responsible for border surveillance

• National Security Guard (NSG) providing specialized anti-terror support

• Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) ensuring ground-level security

Political and Security Implications

The encounter in Kathua has brought the security situation in Jammu and Kashmir back into the spotlight. The region has witnessed a surge in terrorist activities in recent months, with attempts to disrupt peace and stability. The government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring zero tolerance towards terrorism and maintaining strict vigilance along the border areas.

Challenges in Anti-Terror Operations

Despite the deployment of high-tech surveillance equipment and the efforts of security personnel, tracking and neutralizing terrorists in the forested terrains and border areas remains a significant challenge. The use of tunnels and natural ravines for infiltration complicates search operations, requiring a multi-pronged strategy involving technology and manpower.

Ongoing Operations and Future Strategy

The encounter in Rajbagh, Kathua, is still ongoing, with security forces determined to neutralize the terrorists. The operation has now extended into the Billawar forest and surrounding areas, where security forces have intensified their search efforts.

Authorities are also focusing on:

• Strengthening border surveillance with more advanced equipment.

• Deploying additional personnel in sensitive areas to prevent further infiltrations.

• Enhancing intelligence networks to preempt possible terror attacks.

Conclusion

The fresh encounter in Kathua underscores the ever-present threat of terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir and highlights the resilience of security forces in tackling this challenge. As the anti-terror operation continues, security forces remain on high alert to prevent any further infiltrations and safeguard the region from the menace of terrorism. The swift response of security agencies, combined with advanced surveillance techniques, is expected to ensure that the threat is neutralized effectively.

Key Takeaways

• Fresh encounter in Kathua’s Rajbagh area leaves a police officer injured during ongoing anti-terror operations.

• Security forces use advanced equipment like drones, UAVs, and helicopters to track the terrorists.

• Terrorists suspected to be from the same group that escaped from the Hiranagar sector after Sunday’s encounter.

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