Ongoing Encounter Ends with High-Stakes Shootout and Recovery of Arms Cache.

||Black and White Digital News ||

||Parvinder Singh June 13,2024||

Kathua: In a dramatic and intense encounter, security forces successfully neutralized two terrorists in the Saida Sohal area of Kathua district. The operation, which began late Tuesday evening, has brought attention to the escalating militant activity in the region and highlighted the ongoing infiltration threats from across the border.

The operation commenced after terrorists launched an unprovoked attack in the village, prompting immediate retaliation from security forces. The counter-terrorism unit, including personnel from the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), swiftly responded to the ambush. In the initial exchange of gunfire, one terrorist was killed, and a CRPF officer sustained severe injuries. Tragically, the injured officer succumbed to his wounds early Wednesday morning, marking a solemn moment for the security forces.

The second militant was gunned down in the afternoon, initially there were apprehensions about the presence of one more militant but the same were ruled out after Intensive search and combing operation.

Following the ambush, security forces intensified their search operations, scouring the vicinity of the gunfight for remaining threats. The combing operation, conducted with precision and caution, uncovered a trove of weaponry and supplies, underscoring the extent of militant preparations. The recovered items included:

– Three magazines, each holding 30 rounds

– An additional magazine with 24 rounds

– 75 rounds stored separately

– Three live grenades

– INR 1 lakh in cash, in denominations of INR 500

– Pakistani-made chocolates, dry channa, and stale chapatis .

– Pakistani-manufactured medicines and painkiller injections

– One syringe

– Two packs of A4 batteries

– One handset, taped with an antenna and wires

These findings point to sophisticated logistical support for the militants, raising serious concerns about cross-border infiltration and external backing.

ADGP AnandJain, personally led the operation, ensuring a coordinated and effective response. His presence and leadership were instrumental in the swift neutralization of the militants.

Local residents have expressed their gratitude for the timely and decisive action taken by the security forces. The JKP and CRPF’s efforts were lauded for preventing further casualties and maintaining the region’s safety.

The recent encounter has reignited the debate about infiltration from across the border, with indications of a potential new tunnel being used by militants. The Border Security Force (BSF) has been alerted, and specialized teams have been deployed to investigate and secure any possible infiltration routes.

The Director General of Police (DGP), R.R Swain, issued a stern warning to militants hiding in the Pir Panjal and Chenab Valley regions. “Our message is clear: those who threaten the peace and security of our region will be tracked down and eliminated. There is no safe haven for terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir,” he stated firmly.

The Kathua encounter stands as a testament to the resolve and bravery of the Indian security forces in combating terrorism. The operation’s success, despite the loss of a courageous CRPF officer, underscores the ongoing commitment to safeguarding the region from militant threats. As investigations continue and security is tightened, the focus remains on preventing future infiltrations and ensuring the safety and stability of Jammu and Kashmir.