Security forces intensified their counter-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district after an overnight encounter in the Majalta area resulted in the deaths of two suspected terrorists.
The operation began on Wednesday evening after security personnel received information about suspicious movement in the forested region. A joint team subsequently launched a cordon-and-search operation in the area, leading to an exchange of fire with the suspected terrorists.
According to officials, two terrorists were killed during the gunfight. Their identities and affiliations were yet to be formally established, while security personnel continued combing the surrounding area to determine whether any other individuals were hiding nearby.
The operation involved personnel from the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Reports said the forces were operating under difficult terrain and weather conditions as they expanded searches around the encounter site.
The latest encounter comes at a time when security agencies have increased surveillance and search operations across the Pir Panjal belt. The hilly and forested areas covering parts of Udhampur, Reasi, Ramban, Kathua, Poonch and Rajouri have remained under heightened security attention because of concerns over the movement of armed groups through difficult terrain.
Security activity in the wider region has also increased following a recent investigation in Rajouri into an alleged Lashkar-e-Taiba-linked overground worker network. Rajouri Police recently arrested three people identified as Zakir Hussain, Mohammad Azam and Mohammad Mushtaq. Police said the investigation indicated alleged logistical and other ground-level support to terrorists, and an improvised explosive device was also recovered during the probe.
Following the Udhampur encounter, security personnel have continued area domination and search operations to rule out the presence of additional terrorists. The operation remains under way, with authorities maintaining heightened vigilance across the surrounding region.
Further details regarding the identities of the two deceased terrorists and the outcome of the ongoing search operation are expected as security agencies complete their investigation.
