Military operation against militants underway in Kathua, says police

Jammu: A military operation against militants is underway in the Kamadh Nullah area of Kathua district, prompting a large-scale cordon and search operation, officials said.

The exchange of fire began after the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police launched a search operation following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of militants in the area on Wednesday. As the forces moved in, the militants opened fire, triggering the operation.

A senior police officer said the area has been placed under a tight cordon and intermittent firing is continuing. Additional reinforcements, including teams of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), have been rushed to the spot to strengthen the operation and block possible escape routes.

Inspector General of Police said the operation is underway despite difficult conditions. “Despite darkness, thick vegetation and treacherous terrain, the SOG is relentlessly engaging the terrorists. Teams of CRPF are also participating in the joint operation,” the IGP said.

Security forces have intensified surveillance in the surrounding forested terrain to prevent the militants from slipping away, officials added.