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Gunfight Erupts Between Security Forces and Terrorists in J&K’s Kathua

March 23, 2025, 8:32 pm

A confrontation took place between security personnel and militants in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district on Sunday evening, officials have confirmed. The exchange of fire occurred in the Sanyal village of the Hiranagar sector along the Indo-Pak border after suspected movement was reported.

Security forces promptly initiated a search operation in the area. Officials said that reinforcements were sent to the area, and further information is pending.

Search Operations Intensify in J&K

Earlier on Sunday, security personnel launched another joint search operation in Surankot, Poonch district, following suspicious movement. The operation was launched by the Indian Army’s Romeo Force in coordination with the Poonch Police.

Meanwhile, in another development, a terrorist hideout was discovered in a secluded forest region of Doda district. Officials said that the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the local police and the Army jointly carried out a search operation in the Bhalra forest region of Bhaderwah.

Security personnel seized a pistol, three magazines, six bullets, and 25 rounds of an AK-series rifle during the operation. But no one was arrested. The operation was initiated on the basis of certain intelligence inputs about suspicious movements in the area.

Terrorist Attack Foiled in Rajouri

In another incident related to security, suspected terrorists threw a grenade at a police van in Rajouri district on March 21. A top police official said the grenade attack was on a special operations group (SOG) van moving between Thannamandi and Dera Ki Gali at 8:30 PM. Luckily, the grenade did not hit the van and blasted on the road, inflicting no injuries or damages.

Security on High Alert

With back-to-back security operations and increasing terrorist activities, Jammu and Kashmir are still on high alert. Security forces are still keeping a close watch on sensitive areas to avoid any further danger.

Jammu & Kashmir Police Release Sketches Of Four Suspected Terrorists In Kathua

August 10, 2024, 3:39 pm

The police in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, have released sketches of four terrorists who were reportedly last seen in the district’s ‘higher reaches.’

₹20 lakh reward for actionable information against them.

“Kathua Police releases sketches of 04 terrorists who were last seen in dhoks (mud-houses) of Malhar, Bani & Seojdhar. A reward of 05 lakhs on each terrorist for an actionable information. Anyone with credible information of terrorists will also be suitably rewarded,” read a post on X on Saturday.

The Jammu region has witnessed several terrorist attacks in the past few months. On 9 June, a pilgrim bus in Reasi was attacked that left 11 passengers dead. The attack took place on the same day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi took oath for his third consecutive term in New Delhi.

On July 8, terrorists ambushed an Indian Army patrol in Machedi area of Kathua, killing five soldiers, including a JCO. A week later on July 15, four soldiers, including a Captain, were killed in an encounter with another group of terrorists in Desa forests in Doda district.

PM Modi visited the Kargil War Memorial in Ladakh on the 25th anniversary of India’s victory in the Kargil War. In an aggressive tone, he issued a stern warning to Pakistan that its ‘nefarious plans’ would never come to fruition.

“Pakistan faced defeat whenever it carried out any misadventure. It has not learned any lessons from history. Today, I am speaking from a place where the masters of terror can hear my voice directly. I want to tell these patrons of terrorism that their nefarious intentions will never succeed…our soldiers will crush terrorism with full force, and the enemy will be given a befitting reply,” he declared.

Crackdown on OGW Network in Kathua: Legal Action Taken Against Over 40 Individuals

July 25, 2024, 1:47 pm

KATHUA; 25 JULY: In a significant breakthrough in our ongoing efforts to counter terrorist activities, Kathua Police at PS Malhar have arrested two Over Ground Workers (OGWs) for supporting terror-related activities. These individuals were also found to have purposefully withheld crucial information by not disclosing it to police in time, thereby obstructing efforts to prevent terrorist actions.

Over 100 individuals have been questioned in connection with this case, while preventive measures have been taken against more than 40 individuals to mitigate further risks and disrupt any potential support systems for terrorist activities. Through meticulous investigation, the two OGWs have been identified as:

1. Layaqat Ali @Pawu S/o Gammi R/o Ward No. 07, Kalna Dhanu Parole Tehsil Billawar District Kathua
2. Mool Raj @Jenju S/o Uttam Chand R/o Bowli Mohalla Malhar Tehsil Malhar District Kathua

Accordingly, a case FIR No. 18/2024 U/S 61(1), 113, 147, 150/ BNS 2/3 EIMCO Act has been registered at PS Malhar, and further investigation is ongoing.

The arrest of these OGWs is a testament to our resolve. We urge the public to remain alert and report any suspicious activities to their nearest Police Station or Dial 100 or 9858034100.

Interstate Coordination Meeting Held to Prevent Border Infiltration

July 11, 2024, 1:15 pm

Kathua, July 11: Top officials from Punjab Police, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and the Border Security Force (BSF) gathered at the Kathua Police Line for a crucial interstate coordination meeting. Attended by DG JK RR Swain, Punjab DG Gaurav Yadav, and Special DG BSF YB Khurania, the meeting focused on strategies to prevent infiltration along the international border in Punjab and Jammu & Kashmir.

The meeting follows a recent terror attack in Jammu, with sources indicating that security forces have received intelligence suggesting terrorists are infiltrating from the international border in Punjab into Jammu and Kashmir to carry out major attacks and other related activities.

The high-level meeting emphasized the necessity of collaboration between agencies to ensure border security. Senior officers from all involved forces participated, contributing to a comprehensive discussion on enhancing border vigilance and preventing illegal crossings.

This meeting marks a significant stride in strengthening interstate coordination to ensure the safety and security of regions along the international border.

Army Jawans Repel Ambush In Kathua with 5,100 Rounds Of Fire

July 10, 2024, 8:13 pm

Jammu, July 10: In a fierce confrontation, jawans of the 22 Garhwal regiment fired over 5,100 rounds to repel heavily armed terrorists who ambushed their convoy in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district. The swift and courageous response of the soldiers forced the attackers to retreat into the wooded hills, officials reported.

The ambush, which occurred on Monday, resulted in the deaths of five Army personnel and injuries to five others. Officials have been piecing together the events leading up to and during the more than two hours of intense gunfire that followed the initial attack.

The terrorists launched their assault on two Army vehicles traveling on the Machedi-Kindli-Malhar mountain road near Badnota village, approximately 150 km from Kathua district headquarters. Despite facing a heavy barrage of bullets, the soldiers mounted a formidable defense, firing continuously to protect their injured colleagues and prevent the terrorists from seizing their weapons or causing further harm.

The quick and decisive action by the 22 Garhwal regiment not only minimized casualties but also thwarted the terrorists’ plans, demonstrating the bravery and resilience of the Indian Army in the face of sudden and violent attacks.

Encounter Breaks Out in Badnot Village of Kathua Following Terrorist Attack on Army Vehicle

July 8, 2024, 5:03 pm

Jammu, July 8: An encounter erupted between militants and security forces in the Machhedi area of Kathua district on Monday following an attack on an Army vehicle by terrorists.

Official sources informed The Daily Guardian that a joint team of police and security forces came under fire during searches in the Badnote area of Machhedi. The forces retaliated, leading to a gunfight.

Additional reinforcements have been dispatched to the encounter site, according to officials.

Further details are awaited.

Why Has Jammu Seen A Surge In Terror Incidents Since 2021?

June 14, 2024, 3:34 pm

In a bold move to counter escalating terrorist activities in Jammu, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has directed officials to deploy the full strength of the counter-terror apparatus against the perpetrators of recent attacks. The call to action follows a series of alarming incidents, including the latest militant activity in the Reasi district and other attacks across the region.

Spiking Terrorist Activities in Jammu

Jammu, once a militancy hotspot in the 1990s, had experienced relative peace until a resurgence of violence began in 2021. The surge in terrorist-induced violence has continued into 2024, causing significant concern among residents and authorities.

The India Foundation Jammu and Kashmir Security Tracker 2021 report highlighted a notable increase in terrorist attacks in the Jammu division, which comprises ten districts: Jammu, Doda, Kathua, Ramban, Reasi, Kishtwar, Poonch, Rajouri, Udhampur, and Samba. The report noted that incidents surged in the latter half of 2021, with 28 attacks reported in the third quarter (July-September) and 34 attacks in the fourth quarter (October-December), compared to 24 in the second quarter (April-June) and 16 in the first quarter of the year.

Notable Incidents and Growing Concerns

One of the most significant incidents in recent years was the drone attack on the Jammu Air Force Station in June 2021, which caught authorities off-guard and indicated a new dimension to terrorist tactics in the region. More recently, in June 2024, militants targeted a bus en route to Katra, the base camp of the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine, resulting in the deaths of seven pilgrims and injuring many others.

Throughout 2021 and 2022, various districts in Jammu reported increased terrorist activity. Poonch district saw numerous arrests, encounters, and thwarted infiltration bids, while Rajouri district experienced civilian attacks, encounters, and mysterious blasts, heightening security concerns. Samba district reported suspicious drone activities, and Jammu district witnessed multiple arrests and drone sightings.

Heightened Terrorist Activities in 2023

In 2023, a significant shift occurred as terrorists targeted Rajouri district with an ambush in Bhatta Durian, leading to fatalities and marking the highest number of terror-related deaths since 2011. Poonch and Rajouri emerged as the top districts for casualties, with 28 and 24 deaths respectively, signaling a troubling trend in the region.

The rugged terrain of the Pir Panjal region has provided militants with ideal hideouts and facilitated surprise attacks and infiltration. The use of drones by Pakistan to supply weapons, ammunition, and drugs to terrorist outfits in India remains a significant concern, as highlighted by the India Foundation Jammu and Kashmir Security Tracker 2022 report.

Government’s Response

In response to the rising threat, Prime Minister Modi has emphasized the need for a robust counter-terror strategy. “You cannot wait us out. You cannot divide us,” Biden stated, echoing the sentiment of the G7’s message to Russian President Vladimir Putin. Modi’s directive aims to strengthen Ukraine’s credible defence and deterrence capabilities for the long term, paralleling India’s efforts to bolster its own security apparatus.

The PM’s call for action underscores the urgency of addressing the escalating violence in Jammu and ensuring the safety and security of its residents. As the region grapples with these challenges, the government’s commitment to deploying all available resources against terrorism offers a glimmer of hope for peace and stability in Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir: Security Forces Intensify Operations After Terror Attacks

June 13, 2024, 12:37 pm

Massive search operations are ongoing across several districts of Jammu and Kashmir as security forces work to track down and neutralize terrorists responsible for recent deadly attacks in the region. The operations, concentrated primarily in Doda and Reasi districts, come in response to a series of attacks that have claimed the lives of civilians and security personnel.

In recent days, terrorists targeted multiple locations across Reasi, Kathua, and Doda districts, resulting in casualties including nine pilgrims and a CRPF jawan, with several others injured. Two suspected Pakistani terrorists were killed during an encounter in Kathua, where a substantial cache of arms and ammunition was seized by security forces.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have issued appeals for information from the public regarding the whereabouts of these terrorists, emphasizing the confidentiality of informants. Rewards totaling ₹20 lakh have been announced for information leading to the arrest of key suspects involved in the attacks.

Security operations have been particularly intense in areas like Kota top in Gandoh and Chattagalla in Doda, where recent skirmishes between security forces and terrorists have left seven personnel injured. Despite these efforts, authorities have reported no recent contact with the fleeing terrorists.

In response to intelligence warnings of potential further attacks, security measures have been heightened across Rajouri, Poonch, Kathua, Samba, and Jammu districts. ‘Naka’ checkpoints have been established, and residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to local authorities.

The situation remains tense as security forces continue to conduct searches and maintain a heightened state of alert across the region. The public is encouraged to cooperate with authorities to ensure the safety and security of all residents.

The security situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains fluid as authorities intensify efforts to apprehend those responsible for recent attacks. With operations ongoing and vigilance heightened, the focus remains on preventing further violence and maintaining peace in the region.

For further inquiries or information, please contact the Jammu and Kashmir Police at the provided contact numbers.

Doda Terror Attacks: J&K Police Releases Sketches of 4 Terrorists; 7 Security Personnel Injured in Attacks

June 13, 2024, 8:29 am

The Jammu and Kashmir Police released sketches on Wednesday of four terrorists involved in two separate attacks in the Doda district, and they announced a reward of ₹20 lakh for any information leading to their capture. On Tuesday, terrorists fired upon a joint checkpoint of the 4 Rashtriya Rifles and police at Chattergalla in Bhaderwah. The following day, a search party in the Gandoh area was attacked, resulting in injuries to seven security personnel, including a policeman.

“Jammu and Kashmir Police has released sketches of four terrorists who are believed to be in the upper reaches of Bhaderwah, Thathri, Gandoh and carrying out terror-related activities,” stated a police spokesperson.

Additionally, a cash reward of ₹5 lakh for information on each of these terrorists was announced by the police.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police also called on the public to provide any information regarding the presence and movements of these terrorists.

Doda: Injuries in Separate Encounters

In two separate encounters on Wednesday, five soldiers and two police officers were injured after one group of terrorists attacked a checkpost in the upper reaches of Doda, and another group fired at security forces hours later. These incidents are part of three gunbattles in 26 hours that have heightened tensions in Jammu, an area increasingly affected by cross-border terrorism in the volatile Union territory.

The first attack occurred at 1.45am on Wednesday when three to four terrorists opened fire on a joint checkpost of the 4 Rashtriya Rifles and the Jammu & Kashmir Police in Doda’s Chattargala area on the Bhaderwah-Pathankot road. The prolonged gunbattle resulted in injuries to five army personnel and a special police officer.

The second attack took place in the Kota Top area, about 150km from Chattargala, where terrorists injured head constable Fareed Ahmed.

Around 220km away in Kathua, another gunbattle erupted late Tuesday night, continuing into Wednesday morning. This encounter resulted in the death of a Central Reserve Police Force jawan, injuries to six security personnel and one civilian, and the neutralization of two terrorists.

Three Terrorist Attacks In A Week: Terror Strikes Again, Jammu & Kashmir Security On High Alert

June 12, 2024, 10:21 am

In a severe escalation of violence, the region of Jammu & Kashmir has experienced three separate terrorist attacks within just three days, prompting intensified security measures across the area. The wave of terror has led to injuries among security personnel and civilians, as well as ongoing operations to neutralize threats.

Terror Strikes in Doda and Kathua

Three security personnel were injured in an exchange of gunfire between terrorists and security forces at a joint checkpoint in the Chattergalla area of Doda district late Tuesday night. The checkpoint, manned by the 4 Rashtriya Rifles and police, came under attack, leading to a fierce firefight, according to officials.

In another incident, police and security forces are engaged in a manhunt for a terrorist hiding in Saida Sukhal village in Kathua district. The area has been cordoned off, and a house-to-house search is underway with assistance from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).

Previous Attack in Reasi

These attacks follow a recent terrorist strike in Reasi, where a bus carrying pilgrims from the Shiv Khori temple to Katra was attacked, causing the vehicle to plunge into a deep gorge. This tragic incident resulted in nine deaths and 41 injuries, marking a significant escalation in violence and prompting increased security measures across the region.

Pakistani Terrorist Neutralized

On Tuesday evening, security forces neutralized a suspected Pakistani terrorist who had infiltrated a village near the International Border (IB), injuring a civilian in the process. The terrorist was killed after an exchange of fire when he attempted to lob a grenade at the police.

Ongoing Operation in Saida Sukhal

The operation in Saida Sukhal commenced after two terrorists, believed to have recently infiltrated from across the border, appeared in the village asking for water. This raised the villagers’ suspicions, and an alarm was raised. The terrorists responded by firing randomly, injuring a resident named Omkar Nath. Nath was evacuated to a hospital with an arm injury, while his wife remained unhurt.

The Station House Officer (SHO) of Hiranagar and the Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) engaged the terrorists, leading to the death of one terrorist. An AK assault rifle and a rucksack were recovered from the slain terrorist, whose identity and group affiliation are yet to be confirmed.

Heightened Security Measures

Additional Director General of Police (ADGP) for the Jammu zone, Anand Jain, provided details about the Kathua operation. “Two terrorists who appeared to be freshly infiltrated surfaced in Saida Sukhal village and asked for water from a household. The people got frightened and alerted us. One terrorist was killed in the exchange of fire, while the second is believed to be hiding in the village.”

The operation continues, with security forces on high alert to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of residents.

The recent spate of attacks in Jammu & Kashmir underscores the persistent threat of terrorism in the region. Security forces are on heightened alert, working tirelessly to neutralize threats and protect civilians amidst the ongoing violence.

Terrorist Attack: Gunshots Fired At House In Hiranagar, Kathua; 1 killed In Encounter

June 11, 2024, 9:18 pm

A terrorist was killed in an encounter with security forces after gunmen opened fire on a house in the Hiranagar area of Kathua district in Jammu and Kashmir, announced Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Tuesday. Initial reports indicate that residents of Saida Sukhal village heard gunshots and alerted authorities upon sighting two to three gunmen in the vicinity. The gunmen allegedly fired shots before fleeing into nearby forests. Responding swiftly, police and the Border Security Force (BSF) launched a joint operation to track down the suspected individuals.

Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh described the incident as a terrorist attack on the house of an unnamed individual near the international border. Singh maintained close communication with DC Kathua Rakesh Minhas and SSP Kathua Anayat Ali Choudhary, who were overseeing the situation on-site.

“The owner of the attacked house (name withheld) is also in communication via mobile phone. A joint operation by police and paramilitary forces is underway. One terrorist has been neutralized so far. My office and I are closely monitoring the developments,” posted the minister on X.

This incident follows closely on the heels of a terrorist attack two days ago, when militants targeted a bus carrying pilgrims in the Reasi district of Jammu, resulting in the death of nine individuals and injuring another 42. Security officials suspect the involvement of the Pakistan-based terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba in this strike.

On the ground, extensive efforts to track down terrorists entered their second day on Tuesday. Eleven teams of security personnel, comprising police, Army, and CRPF, are actively pursuing leads in the Ranso-Poni-Treyath belt, where the attack occurred. Deputy Inspector General of Police, Udhampur-Reasi Range, Rayees Mohammad Bhat, reported that significant progress has been made as the teams work diligently to neutralize the fleeing terrorists. “The search operation continues today in and around the area where the attack took place, with 11 teams on the ground, along with a multi-directional cordon laid around the Poni-Treyath belt,” another senior police officer confirmed.

More details awaited.

Freight Train Rolls Down Without Driver, Prompt Action Averts Tragedy in Punjab

February 25, 2024, 9:52 am

In a dramatic turn of events today, a freight train departed from Kathua station in Jammu and Kashmir without a driver, embarking on an unchecked journey that stretched several kilometers before being intercepted at Unchi area of Pathankot railway station in Punjab. The incident, which had the potential for catastrophic consequences, was swiftly addressed due to the coordinated efforts of railway authorities.

Senior officials, upon receiving reports of the unauthorized departure, immediately rushed to Kathua railway station to ascertain the details surrounding the incident. Their proactive response demonstrated a commitment to addressing the situation with urgency and precision. Meanwhile, alerts were issued to stations along the train’s route towards Punjab, ensuring that necessary precautions could be taken to minimize risks to public safety.

The freight train, comprising a full 53 wagons, set off without a driver, raising alarm bells among railway personnel and passengers alike. However, the swift actions of authorities helped avert any loss of life or injuries as a result of the incident. Teams of railway officials mobilized rapidly to intercept and bring the rogue train under control.

An inquiry has been initiated by the authorities to investigate the circumstances leading to the train’s unauthorized departure from Kathua station. This inquiry will be instrumental in identifying any lapses in protocol or oversight that may have contributed to the incident. By learning from this experience, the railway authorities can implement necessary measures to bolster safety protocols and prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Today’s incident serves as a stark reminder of the critical importance of stringent safety measures and constant vigilance within the railway system. While the outcome was fortunate this time, it underscores the need for ongoing improvement and vigilance to ensure the safety and well-being of passengers and railway personnel alike.

BSF recovers IED dropped by drone in Kathua district near Indo-Pak border

February 22, 2024, 2:38 pm

The Border Security Force (BSF) announced on Thursday that it had discovered an improvised explosive device (IED) dropped by a drone in Kathua district. According to the BSF statement, troops spotted drone activity in Manihari village during the early hours of the day.

“At approximately 12:45 AM on 22 Feb 2024, vigilant BSF Jammu troops observed drone movement in the depth area of Manihari village, Police Station – Rajbagh, Tehsil – Marheen, Hiranagar area Kathua and engaged the drone with fire,” the statement said. Following the incident, a search of the area led to the recovery of the IED dropped by the drone. The troops remain on high alert, the statement added.

In a similar incident last month, an IED was discovered and neutralized in the Kupwara district of north Kashmir. The device was found near Chowkibal on the Srinagar-Chowkibal highway. The official account of Chinar Corps posted on X, a social media platform, stated, “IED Recovered near Chowkibal on Srinagar – Chowkibal Highway. ChinarWarriors averted a major terror incident today by recovering and in-situ destroying an IED near Chowkibal on the Srinagar – Chowkibal Highway.” The post also emphasized the Indian Army’s commitment to maintaining a terrorism-free environment in Kashmir.

Co-driver dies of truck en routing to Leh catches fire in Kathua

September 19, 2022, 3:48 pm

According to police, a co-driver of a truck transporting biscuits and confectionery to Leh was charred to death after the vehicle he was travelling in a caught fire late on Sunday at Rajbagh on the Jammu-Pathankot national highway in Kathua district.

The deceased’s identity has yet to be determined.

“A truck transporting biscuits and wafers as well as confectionery to Leh collided with a parked truck on the highway at Rajbagh around 1.30 or 2 a.m.” “It appears that the driver was sleeping, which caused the accident,” said Kathua senior superintendent of police (SSP), RC Kotwal.

“As soon as the Leh-bound truck hit the parked truck, the former caught fire. While the driver jumped out of the truck and fled from the spot, his co-driver got stuck in the cabin. A fire that erupted and quickly engulfed the cabin burnt the co-driver before he could rescue himself,” said the SSP.

A firefighter arrived on the scene and put out the fire, but it was too late to save the man, adding that a thorough investigation is underway.

“The truck came from Sonepat.” Following the incident, we contacted the owners and informed them of the situation. “The transport company owners told us that because it was a long drive from Sonepat to Leh, they had sent two drivers to drive in shifts,” said Rajbagh station house officer (SHO), inspector Amit Sangra.

He added that they would inform us of the identities of the two drivers.

According to Sangra, a case was filed against the driver, currently on the run, under Sections 279 (rash driving) and 304-A (causing death by negligence).