Jammu & Kashmir: Terrorist Neutralised In Encounter Following Attack In Kathua Village

Security forces engaged in an encounter with terrorists in Kathua district, Jammu and Kashmir. One terrorist was neutralised, while others are believed to be still holed up in the area.

Security forces engaged in a fierce encounter with terrorists who opened fire in Saida Sukhal village near Koota Mode in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district, Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday. The response resulted in the neutralisation of one terrorist, while others are believed to be still holed up in the area, news agency PTI reported. According to a police spokesperson, the encounter ensued after authorities received reports of suspicious movement of three individuals around 7.45 pm local time.

The situation escalated when a couple of gunshots were heard that were suspected to have been fired by the terrorists and some people raised an alarm, PTI cited officials as informing.

"I am in continuous online contact with DC #Kathua Sh Rakesh Minhas in the wake of terrorist attack on a house in village Saida in Hiranagar sector close to the International Border," stated Union Minister Jitendra Singh in a social media update on X, adding, "Joint police & paramilitary operation is going on. One terrorist neutralised so far."

This incident marks the second militant attack in Jammu within two days. Just on Sunday, a terror attack targeted a bus carrying pilgrims in Reasi district, claiming the lives of nine individuals and injuring 38 others. The attack sparked extensive efforts by security personnel to track down the perpetrators.

Reasi Terror Attack: 11 Teams Of Security Personnel On Ground, NIA Visits Attack Site Again

"Extensive efforts to track down terrorists involved in the attack on pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi district continued on Tuesday," officials told PTI. "Eleven teams of security personnel are working on the ground, with a multi-directional cordon laid around the Ranso-Poni-Treyath belt."

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has also joined the operation. Additionally, a heightened state of alert has been issued in Jammu and Rajouri districts, with increased security measures in place.

PTI sources indicate that security forces suspect the involvement of Pakistani terrorists, allegedly taking directions from Pakistan's ISI. This revelation has prompted intensified combing operations in the mountainous terrains of Rajouri and Reasi.

In the ongoing investigation, the NIA team visited the attack site for the second consecutive day, meticulously examining the area and questioning detainees for any pertinent information.