Gunfight breaks out in J&K's Kishtwar forests as security forces corner terrorists

A gunfight erupted between security forces and terrorists in the upper reaches of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district on Sunday after troops launched a search operation based on specific intelligence inputs. Officials said the terrorists have been surrounded in the forested area and all entry and exit points have been sealed to prevent their escape.

The encounter began in the Chatroo forest belt when security forces moved in following information about the presence of two to three terrorists. According to sources, one of the militants engaged in the exchange of fire is believed to be Saifullah, described as a dreaded operative.

The joint operation is being carried out by the Army, including troops of the White Knight Corps, along with the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Reinforcements have been rushed to the area as the operation continues under Operation Trashi-I, which was launched earlier this year to target terrorist activity in the region.

Officials said contact with the hiding terrorists was established during the combing operation, which has been ongoing for the past 15 days in the snow-covered forests of Chatroo. The rugged terrain and high mountain passes in Kishtwar have often posed operational challenges for security forces.

Kishtwar has witnessed multiple encounters in recent months. Last month alone, nearly half a dozen gunfights were reported in the forest belt, resulting in the death of one soldier and one terrorist in separate operations. The current operation remains underway, with security forces maintaining a tight cordon around the area.