DH NEWS SERVICE
Kathua, Apr 1
A fierce gunfight broke out between security forces and militants in the Ramkot area of Billawar, Kathua district, late Monday night. Reportedly, one militant has been killed and another injured, while security operations continue in the area.
The militants are believed to be part of Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) and two of them were killed in an encounter at Jathuna a few days ago. Four policemen lost their lives in the encounter while seven security forces personnel were injured. Three militants had escaped from the encounter site.
The fresh encounter began when police intercepted three JeM terrorists in the Panch Tirth area of Ramkot in Kathua. Police and CRPF personnel launched an operation, leading to heavy gunfire that lasted throughout the night. Special forces of the Army later joined the operation to strengthen the security response.
This is the third major encounter in Kathua district in as many days. The first took place in Sanyal village of Hiranagar, where five militants were spotted.
A confrontation began when they attempted to kidnap a local couple. The couple escaped and alerted security forces, leading to a gunfight in which two militants were killed at Jathuna, while three others managed to flee.
The second encounter occurred in Juthana, under Rajbagh Police Station, where security forces engaged another group of militants
Two militants were eliminated, though intelligence reports suggest more operatives may be in the area.
Following these encounters, security forces intensified efforts to track down the remaining terrorists. Late last night, three militants were spotted in Jain Tirth, Ramkot. police, backed by CRPF units, launched an operation, resulting in heavy crossfire. The area has been cordoned off to prevent any escape.
Amid the surge in militant activity, security has been tightened along highways leading to Billawar from Jammu and Kathua.
Intelligence inputs suggest multiple militant groups may have infiltrated from across the border, and authorities fear more attempts could be under way.
Earlier, police arrested several individuals suspected of helping militants move from Sanyal, Hiranagar, to Juthana. These individuals are believed to have guided the militants through established infiltration routes.
As the Billawar search operation continues, security forces remain on high alert, determined to prevent further infiltration and ensure the safety of residents.
