J&K’s Rajouri: Security Forces Launch Major Hunt for Terrorists After Attack

On Wednesday, the Jammu and Kashmir Police, in coordination with other security forces, launched an extensive search operation in the dense forests of Dhar Sakri in Rajouri district. The operation was initiated to track down terrorists who had fled after opening fire on a police and security forces search party on Tuesday night. This incident underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region and the proactive measures being taken to prevent terrorist activities in key border areas.

Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, confirmed that an exchange of fire had taken place between the SOG (Special Operations Group) team and the terrorists in Beeranthub area, under the jurisdiction of Kandi Police Station. Following the encounter, reinforcements were immediately deployed to the area, and a joint operation involving the Indian Army, J&K Police, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was launched to locate and neutralize the terrorists. As of the latest reports, no casualties have been reported on either side.

According to the IGP, the SOG team initiated searches after receiving specific intelligence regarding the presence of terrorists in the forested area, which is also inhabited by nomadic communities. Around 7:15–7:20 pm on Tuesday, terrorists hiding in the forests opened fire on the SOG team. The security personnel retaliated, forcing the terrorists to flee deeper into the forests. The area was promptly cordoned off to prevent their escape and facilitate the search operation.

In addition to the Dhar Sakri operation, security forces and police simultaneously launched a joint search in the Dharni Top area of Basantgarh in Udhampur district. This followed reports from local residents who claimed to have spotted terrorists in the vicinity on Tuesday evening. However, despite these operations, no direct contact with terrorists has been established so far.

While there have been previous reports of terrorist movements in the Kandi region, it had been some time since security forces had come into direct contact with militants there. The renewed engagement indicates both the persistence of terrorist elements in the area and the challenges of counter-insurgency in dense forest and hilly terrain.

Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in border districts like Rajouri and Poonch, have been on high alert since 2021 due to increased infiltration attempts across the Line of Control (LoC) and a surge in terrorist activities. These districts are strategically sensitive and have historically been targets of cross-border terrorism, making constant vigilance and rapid response operations essential.

The ongoing search operations reflect a comprehensive approach to regional security. They involve intelligence-driven planning, coordination among multiple agencies, and proactive field operations to ensure the safety of residents and the neutralization of potential threats. The use of specialized units like SOG and reinforcement from the Army and CRPF indicates the seriousness of the operations and the importance of maintaining a robust security presence in vulnerable regions.

Overall, the joint operations in Rajouri’s Dhar Sakri forests and Basantgarh’s Dharni Top highlight the persistent threat posed by terrorist elements in Jammu and Kashmir. The coordinated response by police and security forces demonstrates the ongoing commitment to maintaining law and order, preventing terrorist attacks, and securing sensitive border areas. Despite no casualties being reported, the operations underscore the readiness and vigilance of security agencies in addressing threats posed by organized militant activities. These measures are part of a broader strategic effort to curb infiltration, enhance border security, and ensure stability in key districts prone to terrorist activity.