What is the Current Status of the Search Operation in J&K's Kathua?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Joint security forces are conducting an active search operation in Kathua district.
- Suspicious movement was reported, prompting immediate action.
- Security forces are focused on preventing cross-border terrorism.
- Technological measures, including anti-drone systems, are in place.
- Communities near the border are under constant surveillance to ensure their safety.
Jammu, Oct 1 (NationPress) A search operation is currently being conducted by joint security forces in the Kathua district of J&K on Wednesday following reports of suspicious movement in the border region, according to officials.
Authorities indicated that the search initiative commenced after receiving intelligence regarding unusual activity in the Rajbagh sector of the district.
"The operation was collaboratively initiated by the police and the Border Security Force (BSF) in the vicinity of the Ujh river near Jhathana village, which is adjacent to the International Border. Local residents reported seeing three individuals, one of whom was carrying a significant backpack. Consequently, the joint search teams have been actively combing the area since early morning," an official stated.
"So far, the search parties have not encountered any suspicious individuals, but traces of footprints have validated the movement of some persons," the official added.
The operation remains ongoing in the region.
Jhathana village is situated near the international border, and historically, there have been instances where terrorists have crossed into India, taking civilians hostage for food and shelter.
Security forces are maintaining vigilant surveillance of regions adjacent to the international border to ensure that any attempted crossings by terrorists are countered effectively to prevent attacks on civilians and security personnel.
J&K is bordered by a 240 km long international border spanning the Jammu, Samba, and Kathua districts, which is under the watch of the BSF. Additionally, the region has a 740-km-long Line of Control (LoC) in Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora districts in the Valley, as well as in Poonch, Rajouri, and parts of the Jammu district in the Jammu division, overseen by the army.
Both the army and the BSF are deployed to prevent infiltration and the movement of arms, ammunition, cash, and drugs.
With terrorists, allegedly assisted by Pakistan, utilizing drones to drop payloads into Indian territory, the BSF has implemented specialized anti-drone technology along the international border.