Jammu Tawi, Jun 1: Tension gripped Raika-forest belt near Mahamaya Temple in Jammu’s Bahu Fort area on Monday after alleged land mafia elements chased police personnel and resorted to stone-pelting during an enforcement drive.
According to the details, Police and Forest officials had carried out a major anti-encroachment drive on May 19, 2026, during which multiple illegal structures were demolished and prime forest land was reclaimed.
Since the demolition drive, the area has remained sensitive, witnessing heightened activity and visits by several political leaders, who extended support to local residents.
According to officials, following fresh inputs about illegal land activities a police team reached the area this morning. “The team was confronted by a group of individuals. The situation escalated as the mob chased the police party and began pelting stones, forcing them to retreat and seek reinforcements,” the officials said.
Additional police teams were rushed to the spot, and the situation was later brought under control. The area witnessed brief chaos as security forces moved to disperse the mob and restore order, they added.
Meanwhile, locals whose houses were demolished during the anti-encroachment drive distanced themselves from the stone-pelting incident, denying any involvement. They alleged that some outsiders were attempting to exploit the situation and create unrest in the area.
Officials said efforts are underway to identify and apprehend those involved in the attack. A case has been registered and further investigation is in progress.
Authorities reiterated that strict action will be taken against those involved in illegal land encroachments as well as attacks on law enforcement personnel, underlining a zero-tolerance approach to such incidents.
