J&K: Did Joint Forces Neutralize Terrorists in Kishtwar and Udhampur?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Jammu, Feb 4 (NationPress) One militant was eliminated on Wednesday in the Kishtwar district of J&K, while two others were killed in Udhampur district during two separate encounters with joint security forces.
The Army reported that around 5:45 p.m., contact was reestablished with the fleeing terrorists during the ongoing Operation Trashi-I, conducted by the Army’s CIF Delta along with the J&K Police and CRPF in the vicinity of Dichhar, Kishtwar.
“One terrorist has been successfully neutralized. The operation is ongoing,” the Army confirmed.
Counter-terror operations were initiated in the Kishtwar district following a January 18 encounter that resulted in the martyrdom of an army paratrooper.
“The ongoing search and neutralization of terrorists in the Kishtwar area has already resulted in multiple contacts within the dense forests and difficult terrain,” stated the Army.
Earlier on Wednesday, in the Basantgarh forest area of Udhampur district, a cordon was established based on actionable intelligence regarding the presence of militants.
Joint forces moved in last evening as militants fired upon them from a cave identified by drones utilized during the operation.
Officials indicated that the joint forces provided a measured response, advancing cautiously while tightening the cordon around the militants to thwart their escape in the densely wooded area.
UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) were pivotal in confirming the presence of terrorists within the cave, enabling the joint forces to adapt their strategy and mitigate unnecessary risks.
The operation is being executed with caution, considering the potential for additional militants to be present in the area.
Officials have advised local residents to remain indoors as a precaution until the operation concludes.
The existence of militants in the hilly regions of Udhampur, Kathua, Rajouri, Poonch, and Doda districts of Jammu division has become a significant concern for security forces.
During a review meeting on January 8, Home Minister Amit Shah ordered the neutralization of these militants, who are predominantly believed to be Pakistani nationals, while ensuring zero infiltration at the borders.
Shah is set to visit J&K for three days starting February 5, including a visit to the international border and chairing another security review meeting in Jammu city.