An intense encounter unfolded in the Hiranagar area of Kathua district in Jammu and Kashmir as security forces swiftly responded to an attack on a residence by suspected terrorists. Union Minister Jitendra Singh confirmed the incident, stating that one terrorist was neutralized in the encounter.
Residents of Saida Sukhal village were jolted awake by the sound of gunshots, prompting them to alert authorities upon spotting two to three armed assailants in the vicinity. Initial reports suggest that the gunmen opened fire on a house before fleeing into the nearby forests.
In a coordinated effort, the police and Border Security Force (BSF) launched a joint operation to track down the perpetrators responsible for the brazen attack.
Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh underscored the severity of the situation, describing it as a terrorist assault on the residence of an undisclosed individual near the international border. Singh maintained close communication with local authorities, including DC Kathua Rakesh Minhas and SSP Kathua Anayat Ali Choudhary, to monitor the unfolding events.
“The owner of the house that was attacked (name not to be disclosed) is also in touch on mobile phone. Joint police & para military operation is going on. One terrorist neutralised so far. I and my office are in constant touch and keeping a close watch on the developments,” the minister posted on X.
The incident comes on the heels of a recent terrorist attack on a bus carrying pilgrims in the Reasi district, which claimed nine lives and left 42 others injured. Suspicions have arisen regarding the involvement of the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba in the deadly assault.
Efforts to apprehend the perpetrators entered a critical phase on Tuesday, with security personnel intensifying operations. Eleven teams comprising police, Army, and CRPF personnel are actively engaged in the pursuit, with a multi-directional cordon established around the Ranso-Poni-Treyath belt, according to officials.
Deputy Inspector General of Police, Udhampur-Reasi Range, Rayees Mohammad Bhat, affirmed the concerted efforts of security forces, stating, “The search operation is going on today in and around the area (where the attack took place) with 11 teams working on the ground apart from a multi-directional cordon laid around the (Poni-Treyath) belt.”
