Jammu and Kashmir: In a major counterterrorism operation in the Kathua district, three terrorists and four police personnel lost their lives during a fierce day-long encounter on Thursday. The operation, led by the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, was supported by the Indian Army and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Seven policemen, including a deputy superintendent of police (DSP), were injured in the exchange of fire.
Intense Gunbattle in Kathua Forests
The encounter began at around 8 a.m. near Jakhole village in the Ghati Juthana area of Rajbagh. Security forces launched the operation after receiving intelligence about the movement of five terrorists, suspected to be from the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit.
During the initial gunfight, six policemen, including the SDPO leading the search party, sustained injuries. The rugged terrain and dense foliage posed significant challenges as terrorists opened heavy fire on security forces. The encounter continued through the day, resulting in the killing of three terrorists.
However, the operation came at a heavy cost, with four police officers losing their lives. Their bodies were yet to be retrieved by nightfall. The operation was temporarily halted and was scheduled to resume at first light on Friday, as two more terrorists were believed to be trapped in the area.
Casualties and Injured Personnel
The casualties included three SOG personnel and one additional policeman. The SDPO, who sustained injuries, was evacuated along with two other injured policemen to a hospital in Kathua, where they were reported to be in stable condition. Two army personnel were also injured and were shifted to a military hospital for treatment.
Indian Army Pays Tribute to Martyred Policemen
The Rising Star Corps of the Indian Army expressed their condolences and saluted the bravery of the fallen police officers.
“#RisingStarCorps salutes the valor & indomitable spirit of the brave @JmuKmrPolice personnel who made the supreme sacrifice fighting valiantly during the ongoing OP SAFIYAN in #Kathua. Their courage and dedication will always be remembered,” read a post on X (formerly Twitter).
Though the number of casualties was not mentioned in the post, it acknowledged the supreme sacrifice made by the police personnel in the line of duty.
Operation Against Infiltrated Terrorists Continues
Security forces had been on high alert in the Kathua region following reports of terrorist infiltration. On Sunday evening, a group of heavily armed terrorists was intercepted by SOG personnel in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district.
Despite an extensive search operation, the terrorists managed to escape the initial cordon. It is suspected that the same group was involved in Thursday’s gunfight near Jakhole, approximately 30 kilometers from the earlier encounter site.
During earlier search operations, security forces recovered weapons and explosives, including four loaded M4 carbine magazines, two grenades, a bulletproof jacket, sleeping bags, tracksuits, food packets, and materials for constructing improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Investigators believe the terrorists infiltrated from across the border, possibly using a ravine route or a newly constructed tunnel.
Community Stands with Security Forces
In an inspiring display of support, dozens of local youth were seen assisting security forces by carrying heavy weapons and ammunition into the encounter zone. Their participation highlights the growing resilience of the local population against terrorism.
