Jammu: A high-intensity gunfight erupted between security forces and terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district after days of extensive search operations. Officials confirmed that the latest encounter began in the Sufain forest area under the jurisdiction of Rajbagh Police Station, where forces had been tracking suspected militants. The operation initially started in Sanyal village of Hiranagar Tehsil and later expanded to surrounding regions. Security personnel had been conducting searches since Sunday, with sporadic gunfire reported, but the militants had remained unresponsive to speculative firing until now.

Authorities intensified security along the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway, increasing surveillance on border roads to prevent any possible escape. Local villagers played a crucial role in aiding security forces, with a resident reporting two men in army uniforms requesting water on Tuesday, which raised suspicions. The search effort, spanning multiple locations, led to the recovery of grenades, loaded magazines of an M4 carbine, bulletproof jackets, and other tactical gear. The involvement of the Indian Army, NSG, BSF, CRPF, and special operations units, supported by UAVs, drones, and sniffer dogs, reflects the gravity of the ongoing mission.

Intelligence inputs suggest that the militants may have infiltrated from across the border, either via a ravine route or an undiscovered tunnel. This escalation in terrorist activity, especially in areas like Kathua that were previously considered relatively secure, has raised serious concerns among security agencies. The Pir Panjal region, a known militant hideout, has witnessed a surge in infiltration attempts as anti-terror operations push extremists into remote mountainous areas. Meanwhile, the Union Home Ministry remains closely engaged, with security reinforcements on high alert to prevent further threats.