Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir – A fierce gunbattle in Jammu’s Kathua district on Thursday resulted in the killing of two militants while five policemen, including a Superintendent of Police, sustained injuries. The encounter took place near Jakhole village in the Ghati Juthana area of Rajbagh, as security forces continued combing operations in Hiranagar subdivision to track down a group of suspected militants.
Intense Gunfight in Kathua
The operation unfolded as security personnel engaged in a search operation following intelligence reports about the presence of militants. The gunbattle, which broke out between the militants and security forces, led to serious injuries for Special Police Officer Bharat Chalotra, who sustained facial wounds. The condition of two other injured policemen is reported to be critical.
Militants Believed to Have Crossed From Pakistan
Authorities believe that the militants involved in Thursday’s encounter were part of the same group that had engaged security forces in gunfire last Sunday.The first sighting of the group occurred in the forests near Saniyal village, close to the International Border, prompting security forces to launch a large-scale operation.
Security Forces Intensify Search Operations
Since the initial sighting, security forces, led by J&K Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat, have been conducting extensive combing operations in multiple areas of the Hiranagar sector. On Tuesday, security personnel expanded their search zone towards the International Border and the Jammu-Pathankot national highway.
The latest encounter site, near Jakhole village, is nearly 30 km away from Saniyal, where the group of militants was first spotted. As part of their investigation, authorities have taken seven individuals into custody for allegedly providing logistical support to the militants. These individuals reportedly have a history of aiding militant cross-border movements.
Weapons and Ammunition Recovered
During the search operations earlier this week, security forces recovered crucial evidence, including two grenades, empty M4 ammunition shells, multiple M4 carbine magazines, a bulletproof jacket, and other materials. These recoveries indicate that the militants were heavily armed and prepared for a prolonged engagement.
Ongoing Security Measures
Despite the killing of two militants, security officials remain on high alert as intermittent firing continued in the area. The authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and additional security forces have been deployed to prevent any further infiltration attempts.
The latest incident highlights the ongoing security challenges in the Jammu & Kashmir region, with cross-border infiltration attempts continuing to pose a threat. The swift response by security forces in neutralizing the militants and conducting extensive search operations underscores their commitment to maintaining national security.
