Srinagar, Mar 24: Security forces have launched an intensified search operation in Kathua district following the discovery of a terrorist hideout, resulting in the seizure of arms, including multiple M-4 carbine magazines, a bulletproof jacket, and other materials, officials reported.
The operation, which began on Sunday evening in the Hiranagar sector, continued through Monday, with additional reinforcements from the National Security Guard (NSG), drones, and sniffer dogs being deployed.
A senior police officer told Rising Kashmir that the operation was triggered by intelligence inputs about terrorists hiding inside a ‘dhok’ (hut) located in a nursery in Sanyal village, roughly five kilometers from the International Border with Pakistan.
“Police, along with the Special Operations Group (SOG), acted swiftly, but the terrorists opened fire, leading to a gunfight that lasted more than 30 minutes,” the officer said.
The terrorists launched a heavy barrage of fire at the police party, which led to an intense firefight that lasted over half an hour. Reinforcements were quickly sent in, and a manhunt was launched to capture the terrorists.
Officials confirmed that there were no casualties in the initial firing, and the area was placed under a tight security cordon throughout the night. Security forces moved in at first light. A helicopter was also deployed as part of the operation. While attempting to escape, the terrorists abandoned several items, including 4 M4 magazines, 4 improvised explosive devices (IED) packs, shoes, a bulletproof jacket, a sleeping bag, and a tracksuit.
Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat supervised the operation from the ground. Intelligence inputs indicated that at least two groups, each consisting of five terrorists, had infiltrated the area on Saturday.
In a separate development, Lt Col Suneel Bartwal, PRO and spokesperson, confirmed that a joint operation by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police (J&K Police) led to the recovery of a large cache of arms, ammunition, narcotics, and war-like stores in Poonch.
The operation took place in the Sangla Top area near Surankote, Poonch district, and was the result of extensive intelligence gathering. The recovered materials included assault rifles, grenades, and a significant quantity of ammunition. A large quantity of narcotics, believed to be linked to cross-border smuggling, was also seized.
The spokesman added that additional war-like stores, which could potentially support insurgent activities, were also recovered, underscoring the ongoing concern over arms and drugs being smuggled into the region.
Further investigations are underway to analyse the seized materials and disrupt the networks supporting terrorism in the region.
“This operation marks a major achievement in our efforts to secure the region and eliminate the threats posed by terrorism and cross-border smuggling,” the spokesperson concluded. “Security forces remain on high alert, ensuring peace and stability in the volatile border areas of Poonch district and its surroundings.”
