What’s Happening with the Anti-Terrorist Operation in J&K’s Kathua?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Jammu, Jan 8 (NationPress) The joint security forces have resumed their anti-terrorist operation on Thursday in Billawar tehsil, located in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district. During the initial exchanges of fire between the terrorists and the forces, one security personnel suffered a minor injury.
According to officials, the operation was reinitiated in Kahog village within Billawar tehsil.
The forces involved in this operation comprise the Special Operations Group (SOG) of J&K Police, the Army, and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
Officials reported, “Contact with the terrorists hiding in the area was established during a search operation by the SOG in Kahog village when they were fired upon. One security personnel was injured in the leg during these exchanges.”
The injured personnel was promptly taken to a hospital, where he was confirmed to be out of danger.
“The gunfire continued for approximately an hour yesterday evening. Currently, it remains unclear if any terrorist was injured during the initial exchanges,” the officials noted.
The operation resumed at first light today in the Dhanu Parole-Kamadh Nallah forest area. Additional forces have been deployed to the region, and aerial surveillance is being utilized to locate terrorists hiding in the dense forests,” officials further elaborated.
Inspector General of Police for Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, emphasized that despite challenging conditions such as darkness and thick vegetation, the security forces are executing the operation with unwavering resolve. He stated that CRPF teams have also joined this joint effort to fortify the cordon.
The exchange of fire reportedly persisted for over an hour before tapering off. However, it remains uncertain whether any terrorists were injured or neutralized during the encounter.
Joint forces, including the police, Army, CRPF, and BSF, have strengthened security measures throughout Kathua and nearby areas.
A comprehensive security framework involving the BSF, police, and Village Defence Guards (VDGs) has been placed on high alert in anticipation of the forthcoming Republic Day celebrations. The anti-terrorist operation in Billawar tehsil continues, with further details expected to emerge.