Jammu Tawi: A fresh encounter broke out between security forces and holed-up terrorists during an ongoing search operation in the higher reaches of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on Thursday, officials said.
The latest exchange of fire took place in the dense forests of Singhpora after security forces established fresh contact with the terrorists this morning. Heavy firing between the two sides was underway when last reports were received, officials said, adding that efforts are continuing to neutralise the terrorists operating in the area.
The search operation was launched on Sunday in Sonnar village near Mandral-Singhpora in the Chatroo belt following specific intelligence inputs. The initial gunfight had resulted in the death of one paratrooper, while seven other soldiers sustained injuries.
Officials said a major terrorist hideout was unearthed near the encounter site on Monday, leading to the seizure of incriminating materials. Several individuals were also picked up for questioning in connection with the operation.
According to officials, a group of two to three terrorists, believed to be affiliated with the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), is suspected to be trapped in the area as the operation continues. (Agencies)
