In a major development, a large-scale search operation has been initiated in the dense forests of Basantgarh, located in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district, to track down and neutralize two groups of Pak-backed terrorists. This operation, which entered its second day on Monday, was launched following a brief encounter between terrorists and a Village Defence Guard (VDG) in the remote Panara village in Chochru Gala heights early Sunday, resulting in the tragic death of the VDG member.
Led by a joint effort involving the police, army, and CRPF, the operation has intensified with additional forces mobilized to bolster the efforts in locating and neutralizing the fleeing terrorists. Despite the ongoing operation, there has been no fresh contact with the terrorists.
In parallel, reports indicate that the Jammu and Kashmir police have detained several local residents suspected of providing assistance to the terrorists, including food and shelter. Additional Director General of Police, Jammu zone, Anand Jain, has confirmed the presence of two groups of terrorists in the Udhampur district, believed to have recently infiltrated from across the border. Initial investigations suggest that each group comprises between four to six individuals, and security forces are diligently working on various intelligence inputs to eradicate the threat they pose.
Reportedly, the terrorists had infiltrated into Basantgarh from the adjoining Kathua district and were en route to the Chenab valley when intercepted by law enforcement and VDG members. The situation remains fluid as security forces continue their relentless pursuit to ensure the safety and security of the region.