Encounter Between Security Forces and Terrorists Continues in Kathua

Jammu: A gunfight between security forces and terrorists is ongoing in the hilly Billawar area of Kathua district in Jammu and Kashmir.

Officials received information about the presence of some terrorists hiding in Kahog village of Billawar tehsil. Acting on the tip-off, the security personnel launched a search operation and sealed off the entire area.

The security forces called upon the terrorists to surrender, but they opened fire instead.

IGP Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Toati, confirmed the encounter on 7 January.

A senior police officer stated that the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Kathua engaged in a firefight with terrorists in the Kamadh Nala forest area.

Officials indicated that these could be the same terrorists spotted earlier that morning in the surrounding areas.

To prevent the terrorists from escaping, additional forces have been deployed in the village.

Further details are awaited.

Meanwhile, Jammu and Kashmir Police along with security forces continue their aggressive operations against terrorists, their over-ground workers (OGWs), supporters, drug traffickers, and hawala racketeers.

These coordinated campaigns aim to dismantle the entire support system for terrorism in Jammu and Kashmir, not just to chase armed militants.

The police are also seizing properties belonging to terrorists, OGWs, and their supporters after obtaining court orders, as these assets have been proven to be financed through proceeds of terrorism.

Additionally, OGWs and their associates are being detained under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA).