Jammu : An encounter between security forces and terrorists recommenced in Kishtwar district on Saturday after contact was re-established during a joint counter-terror operation, officials said.
Reports said that an exchange of fire commenced around 5:40 am in the Dolgam area as security forces targeted suspected terrorist hideouts following two weeks of search operations. The confrontation was triggered when terrorists opened fire upon noticing the approaching troops, leading to a retaliatory response. The operation is ongoing, with additional forces deployed to reinforce the cordon and prevent any escape. At least three terrorists from Jaish-e-Mohammed are believed to be in the area, including two Pakistan-origin commanders named Saifullah and Adil. This encounter is part of ‘Operation Trashi-I,’ initiated on January 18 in response to coordinated intelligence regarding terrorist movements in Kishtwar district. The operation involves collaboration among the Indian Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and Jammu and Kashmir Police. The Army’s White Knight Corps reported that contact with the terrorists was re-established early on January 31 during the joint operation, which is being conducted in challenging terrain using drones, sniffer dogs, and helicopters for tracking and monitoring. Senior officers from both the Army and police are overseeing the operation. The context of this operation follows a previous incident on December 18, where an Army soldier was killed, and seven others were injured during an encounter in the Chatroo area, prompting an expansion of search operations to dismantle local terrorist networks. Since the launch of ‘Operation Trashi-I,’ one paratrooper has died, and eight security personnel have been injured in various engagements. As a precautionary measure, authorities have suspended internet services within a six-kilometer radius of the encounter site to prevent misinformation and support operational needs. Officials noted that two Jaish terrorists have been active in the area for nearly two years, utilizing natural caves and fortified shelters to evade capture. A recent hideout was discovered in the Singhpora area, where food supplies and other materials were recovered. The operation will continue until the area is fully cleared, with further updates to be provided as the situation evolves.
