Jammu, January 7:
A fierce encounter is currently underway between security forces and a group of terrorists in the Billawar area of Kathua district. The gunfight broke out late Wednesday afternoon after security agencies received specific intelligence regarding the movement of armed infiltrators in the region.
The Current Situation
According to the latest reports from the ground, the encounter is centered around the dense forest area of Kamadh Nullah (Kahog village).
Key Tactical Details:
-
Trigger: A joint team of the Special Operations Group (SOG) and paramilitary forces launched a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) based on “high-grade” intelligence.
-
The Ambush: As troops tightened the perimeter, hiding terrorists opened indiscriminate fire, leading to a direct confrontation.
-
Trapped Terrorists: Officials believe 2 to 3 terrorists are currently pinned down within the forest cordons.
“SOG Kathua has engaged terrorists in the forest of Kamadh Nullah. The operation is ongoing, and reinforcements have been rushed to the spot to plug all escape routes,” confirmed Bhim Sen Tuti, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu Zone.
Casualty Status & Cordon Highlights
At this hour, the situation remains highly fluid. The security forces are exercising extreme caution due to the difficult hilly terrain and thick foliage which provides natural cover to the militants.
This encounter in Billawar follows a series of high-level security meetings in the capital. The Billawar-Doda-Udhampur forest belt has recently seen increased activity, with terrorists attempting to establish hideouts in natural caves.
The primary objective of the current operation is not only to neutralize the trapped individuals but also to identify the local “Over Ground Workers” (OGWs) who may have provided logistics to this group.
Alert for Residents
Authorities have advised residents in the vicinity of Kahog and Billawar to stay indoors and avoid moving toward the forest fringes. A strict “Night Cordon” has been established to prevent the terrorists from taking advantage of the darkness to slip away.
