In a significant development, the Indian Army, in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Police, has initiated Operation Trashi-I in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir. This operation comes after a group of terrorists was located in the challenging and rugged terrains of the region.
Official sources indicate that the operation commenced when security forces engaged with the terrorists in the area of Son Nar, which lies to the northeast of Chhatru near Mandral-Singhoora. The engagement began during a targeted search operation when terrorists opened fire on the forces. Intelligence reports suggest that at least three terrorists, believed to be affiliated with the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM), are believed to be trapped in the vicinity.
The White Knight Corps issued a statement highlighting the “exceptional professionalism and resolve” demonstrated by the troops during operations that are being conducted under strenuous conditions. As the situation evolved, additional reinforcements were deployed to strengthen the cordon around the area, ensuring that operations proceeded flawlessly in cooperation with the civil administration and other security agencies.
Ongoing operations maintain a strong cordon-and-search strategy, with heightened surveillance evident across the region. The recent encounter was informed by intelligence that pointed to the presence of Pakistani terrorists in dense forests and hilly terrains spanning multiple districts in Jammu division. These districts include Kathua, Poonch, Rajouri, Kishtwar, Doda, Udhampur, and Reasi.
This encounter marks the third reported clash with terrorists in the Jammu region in 2023. Previous incidents took place in the forests of the Kahog and Najote areas in Kathua district on January 7 and January 13, respectively.
Authorities are urging local residents to remain calm and to cooperate with security forces as they work to neutralize the threat posed by the terrorists, prioritizing civilian safety throughout the operation.
