J&K: Search Op Intensified to Flush Out Terrorists in Kishtwar Forests

Jammu, November 6: Security forces have intensified a massive cordon and search operation in the forested Chatru area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district to track down two to three terrorists believed to be hiding in the region, officials said on Thursday.

The operation was launched following an encounter on Wednesday between terrorists and security personnel in which a jawan sustained injuries. According to security sources, the terrorists are suspected to be Pakistani nationals.

“A coordinated search is underway, but there has been no exchange of fire since yesterday afternoon,” a senior official said, adding that drones, sniffer dogs, and additional reinforcements have been deployed to strengthen the cordon.

Security agencies are maintaining strict surveillance in the mountainous terrain, which has seen a spike in militant activity in recent months. Kishtwar has witnessed at least six encounters in the past seven months as security forces continue their offensive against Pakistan-based terrorists operating in the Chenab Valley region bordering Doda and Udhampur. (Agencies)