In a tragic encounter on Thursday, three policemen lost their lives while battling militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district. The operation, which had been ongoing for five days, was launched after nearly half a dozen militants were spotted in the forests near Saniyal village, close to the International Border. The group, suspected to have infiltrated from Pakistan, engaged in heavy gunfire with security forces, leading to a prolonged battle. Sources revealed that the slain officers, including a selection grade constable, were personal security officers (PSOs) assigned to the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) Border. Despite no official confirmation from authorities, reports suggest that two militants were also neutralized in the operation. Meanwhile, security forces have detained seven individuals, allegedly for providing logistical support to the militants. Some of them have a prior history of facilitating cross-border infiltration and were previously questioned in 2024.

As the operation expanded, security forces combed the dense forests and moved towards the Jammu-Pathankote highway and the International Border, located nearly five kilometers from the militants’ initial sighting. During the search, two grenades, empty M4 ammunition shells, magazines, a bulletproof jacket, and other materials were recovered, indicating the militants were well-equipped. The movement of the group suggests they were attempting to cross into Udhampur or Doda via Kathua’s Ghati region. The complexity of the operation was heightened by the militants’ strategic positioning in thick forested terrain, making it challenging for security forces to track them down swiftly. J&K’s Director General of Police, Nalin Prabhat, has been closely monitoring the combing operations, and additional reinforcements have been deployed to prevent further militant activity in the region.

The deadly encounter underscores the persistent security threats along the border and the growing challenges in tackling cross-border militancy. This latest infiltration attempt follows a pattern of increased militant movement across the region, prompting heightened surveillance and intelligence gathering. The sacrifices of the fallen policemen highlight the ongoing dangers faced by security personnel in safeguarding the nation against terror threats. Authorities continue to investigate the extent of local support provided to the militants, and the search operation remains active as forces track down any remaining infiltrators.