NEW DELHI: A fresh exchange of fire between security forces and terrorists erupted in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district on Friday morning, officials reported.
Intensified Gunfight and Casualties
On Thursday, an ongoing gunfight in the Sufain forest area resulted in the deaths of three J&K policemen and three suspected Pakistani terrorists. Additionally, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP), two other policemen, and an Army Special Forces soldier sustained injuries.
Security forces quickly cordoned off the area and deployed reinforcements to prevent any escape. Advanced surveillance tools, including UAVs, drones, and sniffer dogs, were used to locate the militants.
How the Conflict Escalated
The encounter began on Thursday when terrorists opened indiscriminate fire during an anti-terror operation in Sufain, Kathua. In response, security forces launched a counterattack.
A similar incident had occurred on March 23 in Hiranagar, Kathua. Following intelligence reports, the J&K Police and Indian Army’s Rising Star Corps initiated a joint operation.
An Indian Army post on X stated, “Based on intelligence input regarding terrorist presence, a joint operation was launched by @JmuKmrPolice & troops of #RisingStar Corps on March 23 in the Saniyal-Hiranagar area. Operations are ongoing.”
Recovered Weapons and Key Intelligence
During a Monday search operation, security teams seized:
✔️ Four loaded M4 carbine magazines
✔️ Two grenades
✔️ A bulletproof jacket
✔️ Sleeping bags and tracksuits
✔️ IED-making materials
The search expanded when a Dinga Amb village resident reported two men in combat clothing asking for water. This crucial tip led to an intensified operation.
Meanwhile, in Rajouri district, security forces discovered a terrorist hideout in the Manyal Gali forests of Thanamandi. The seized items included:
✅ Live ammunition
✅ A grenade
✅ A gas cylinder
✅ A solar panel
✅ Food supplies
Public Reactions and Security Measures
The recent terror attacks have sparked widespread protests in Jammu. Dogra Front and Shiv Sena activists burned a Pakistani flag, condemning cross-border terrorism.
Authorities have tightened security along the Jammu-Pathankot highway and border villages to prevent terrorist escape routes.
