Jammu, Jan 19, KNT: The Jammu region has witnessed three separate encounters so far this month, including two in Kathua district and one in Kishtwar, reflecting heightened security operations across forested and mountainous areas, officials said.
The first encounter of the month broke out on January 7 in the Kamadh Nallah area and the Dhanu Parole Kamadh Nallah belt near Kahog village in the Billawar area of Kathua district. Security forces established contact during a search operation in the forest belt, following specific inputs about militant presence in the area.
The operation continued into the next day, with the Kathua encounter entering its second day on January 8. Security forces maintained a tight cordon and carried out sustained search efforts amid challenging terrain and dense forest cover.
Another encounter was reported on January 13 in the Billawar area of Kathua district. Security forces again established contact during an operation in the area, prompting fresh deployment of troops and area domination exercises.
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The most recent encounter took place on January 18 in the upper reaches of Kishtwar district. According to officials, a gunfight erupted in Sonar village area during a search operation. At least eight soldiers sustained injuries in the encounter and were evacuated for medical treatment.
Officials said the encounters occurred in difficult terrain, complicating movement and operational strategy. Security forces have continued search and cordon operations in the affected areas to prevent any movement and ensure area sanitisation.
Authorities said security arrangements across sensitive belts of the Jammu region remain tightened, with sustained surveillance and operations underway to maintain peace and stability. [KNT]
