Pakistani Jaish Terrorist Eliminated in Kathua Joint Operation
In a significant development in Jammu and Kashmir's ongoing security operations, a Pakistani terrorist affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed was killed in a gunfight in Kathua district on Friday. The incident occurred in the Billawar area, marking a crucial success for security forces amid heightened tensions in the region.
Joint Security Operation Leads to Neutralization
According to Inspector General of Police for Jammu zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, the operation was conducted by a small Jammu and Kashmir police team in collaboration with the Army and CRPF. "A Pakistani Jaish terrorist has been neutralised by a small JK police team in a joint operation with the Army and CRPF in the general area of Billawar, Kathua district," Tuti stated, confirming the elimination of the militant.
This engagement followed an earlier contact established with terrorists on January 7 in Kamad Nullah near Billawar. During that initial encounter, terrorists managed to escape into dense forests after a brief exchange of fire, prompting an intensified search operation.
Intensive Search and Recent Context
Since the January 7 incident, security forces have been actively pursuing the terrorists using advanced tactics, including sniffer dogs and drones. During this period, search parties successfully busted at least three terrorist hideouts, disrupting their operational capabilities in the area.
The successful neutralization in Kathua comes just days after a tragic incident in Kishtwar district, where an Army Havildar succumbed to injuries sustained during an encounter with terrorists on Sunday night. The Havildar was among eight soldiers injured when terrorists, leveraging their dominant positions on higher ground, attacked search parties with grenades and AK-47 fire in the Singhpora area.
Ongoing Counter-Terror Efforts in Chenab Valley
Security forces have been conducting counter-terrorist operations in the dense forests of the upper reaches in Kishtwar's Chhatru area as well. Intelligence sources indicate that two groups of terrorists, led by Pakistani nationals Saifullah and Adil, have been active in the region for approximately two years.
It is estimated that nearly 35 Pakistani terrorists are currently hiding in the mountainous terrains of Doda and Kishtwar districts within the Chenab Valley. The winter season, with its heavy snowfall, limits their mobility, providing security forces with a strategic advantage to corner and neutralize these threats.
The recent operations underscore the persistent challenges and dedicated efforts of Indian security forces in maintaining stability and combating terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir. These developments highlight the ongoing vigilance required to address security concerns in the region, particularly in remote and forested areas where terrorists seek refuge.
