Jammu, January 16:
In a major offensive against anti-national elements, the Kathua Police, in a joint operation with the Special Operations Group (SOG) and central paramilitary forces, have successfully destroyed three terrorist hideouts in the dense forest reaches of the Billawar area.
The operation, which began following an encounter on January 7, 2025, reached a critical breakthrough today, January 16, 2026, with the discovery of two additional tactical locations used by terrorists to sustain themselves in the rugged terrain.
Timeline of the Operation
The long-haul search was triggered by specific intelligence regarding the movement of Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) linked terrorists in the forest belt spanning Kamaad Nallah, Kalaban, and Dhanu Parole.
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January 7, 2025: Intelligence received regarding suspicious movements. A joint search team engaged unknown terrorists in a fierce, night-long exchange of fire.
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Initial Discovery: During the ensuing searches, the first hideout was uncovered near Kamaad Nallah. Recovered items included high-grade ammunition components (M4 empty cartridges) alongside survival kits containing dry fruits (almonds), desi ghee, and winter gear.
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January 16, 2026: Joint teams, pushing deeper into the Kalikhad and Kalaban sectors, successfully neutralized two more hideouts used for long-term logistics.
Logistics and Recovery Details
The subsequent busts revealed a sophisticated supply chain designed for prolonged survival in the wild. The recovery from the two newest hideouts included: Cooking & Fuel (Gas cylinder, cooking oil, eating utensils, empty oil gallons.), Survival & Gear (Blankets, tarpaulin sheets, hand gloves, torches, and containers.), Communication (Charger wires and miscellaneous electronic accessories.) and Supplies (Wrappers of eatables, high-energy food packets, and daily use items.).
Commitment to Security
Ms. Mohita Sharma (IPS), Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Kathua, confirmed that while the hideouts have been dismantled, the operation remains active. “Kathua Police remains fully committed to maintaining peace and security. Our teams are relentlessly tracking the remnants of this terror cell to ensure the safety of our citizens,” she stated.
Security across the Jammu region has been placed on high alert ahead of Republic Day, with intensified patrolling and area domination exercises continuing in high-altitude zones to prevent any further infiltration or local logistical support.
