Srinagar/Kathua, March 27 — Two militants were killed and five personnel injured as Indian military and police forces intensified efforts to neutralize an infiltrating group of about five militants near Jakhole village in the Ghati Juthana area of Rajbagh, officials said on Thursday.
According to reports, the encounter site, a forested area, witnessed heavy gunfire, grenade explosions, and rocket fire throughout the day. Reinforcements from the police, Indian military, and CRPF were immediately deployed to the area.
Three police personnel, including a Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO), were reportedly trapped near the gunfight’s location, adjacent to a rivulet concealed by dense foliage, an official said.
He added that a clear picture would emerge only after the ongoing operation ends.
Officials said the operation aimed to neutralize the infiltrating group, believed to be the same militants who evaded an earlier cordon in Sanyal forest, approximately 30 kilometers away. However, they did not rule out the possibility of a fresh infiltration.
Earlier, on Sunday evening, a group of militants was intercepted by the SOG in the Hiranagar sector of Kathua district. Despite an extensive search operation, they managed to escape the initial cordon.
A subsequent search uncovered four loaded M4 carbine magazines, two grenades, a bulletproof jacket, sleeping bags, tracksuits, food packets, and IED-making materials near the Hiranagar encounter site, officials added.
Police suspect the militants infiltrated on Saturday, possibly using a ravine route or a newly constructed tunnel from across the border.
Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat and Inspector General of Police (Jammu Zone) Bhim Sen Tuti have been overseeing the operation in Kathua for the past four days.