J&K: Latest Update on Kathua Gunfight as Security Forces Hunt Terror Suspects
In a significant development, a fierce gun battle erupted on Wednesday in the upper reaches of Billawar, located in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district. Security forces are actively engaging a group of suspected terrorists believed to be hiding in the dense forest area. This latest incident highlights the ongoing challenges in the region.
How the Kathua Encounter Unfolded
The operation began around 4 PM when local residents reported seeing suspicious individuals in the Kamad Nallah area. These alerts quickly prompted action from authorities.
- Immediate Response: A combined team of security personnel, including members from SOG Kathua and the CRPF, swiftly moved to the location.
- Search Operation: They launched an extensive search operation to track down the hidden militants.
- Firefight Erupts: During the search, the suspected terrorists opened fire on the security team, leading to a direct encounter.
- Militants Flee: As the gunfight intensified, officials reported that the militants retreated deeper into the thick forest.
Challenging Conditions for Security Forces
Inspector General of Police (IGP) for Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, shared an update on X (formerly Twitter), stating that troops are relentlessly pursuing the terrorists. He emphasized the difficult circumstances:
"Our forces are bravely engaging the terrorists despite the challenging conditions of darkness, thick vegetation, and treacherous terrain," IGP Tuti posted.
Authorities have confirmed that the entire area has been sealed off, and the operation continued late into Wednesday night, demonstrating the determination of the security forces.
Recent Anti-Terror Operations in J&K
This incident in Kathua is part of a series of ongoing counter-terror operations across various districts in Jammu and Kashmir. Security forces remain vigilant against militant activity.
Here are some recent instances:
- Doda District (January 2): A Village Defence Guard (VDG) fired warning shots after noticing suspicious movement near his home in Dessa village. This led to a prompt anti-terror operation by security forces in the area.
- Rajouri District (December 31, 2025): A similar operation was carried out in Dali village, Kalakote area, following a VDG's report of suspicious activity.
Widespread Counter-Terror Efforts
A continuous string of counter-terror operations is underway in several key regions:
| Region | Districts Covered | Objective |
|---|---|---|
| Chenab Valley | Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban | Track and neutralize militants on the move. |
| Border Areas | Udhampur, Kathua | Maintain vigilance and eliminate threats. |
| Frontier Districts | Rajouri, Poonch, Reasi | Secure borders and root out terror elements. |
These operations are critical in securing the region, especially in areas like Reasi, which shares borders with Rajouri-Ramban in the Jammu division and Kulgam in south Kashmir.
