Police Death Toll Rises to Four as Another Body is Recovered; Two Pakistani Terrorists Killed on Day One
Kathua Encounter: Death Toll of J&K Police Rises to Four, Operation Continues
The death toll of J&K Police personnel has climbed to four after another officer’s body was recovered near the encounter site in Rajbagh, Kathua district, officials confirmed on Friday morning. The body was located using drone surveillance, according to the police.
DGP Assures Relentless Efforts to Eradicate Terrorism
Speaking to the media, Director General of Police (DGP) Nalin Prabhat confirmed the martyrdom of four officers and reaffirmed the J&K Police’s commitment to eliminating terrorism.
“We will not rest until we put an end to these cross-border activities. The operation is still ongoing, and we expect it to be resolved by Saturday,” he stated.
How the Encounter Unfolded
According to DGP Prabhat, a local couple in Sanyal reported suspicious movement of Pakistani nationals on March 23, prompting a police search operation.
- Security forces engaged with the terrorists, but they managed to escape, leaving behind four magazines, three IEDs, and two grenades.
- A joint operation involving the Army, BSF, CRPF, and J&K Police was launched and lasted four days.
- On Thursday, security forces killed two Pakistani terrorists believed to be affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM).
Despite initial reports of four terrorists neutralized, only two bodies were recovered, while the whereabouts of the other suspected militants remain uncertain.
Fresh Gunfight Breaks Out as Operation Intensifies
On Friday morning, security forces launched a renewed assault, cautiously advancing into dense forested terrain. Explosions and heavy gunfire continued throughout the day as forces attempted to flush out the remaining terrorists.
A senior police officer said that at least five terrorists were spotted, but a final confirmation on the number of killed militants will be made on Saturday morning.
“We believe at least two more terrorists are still hiding in the area. A large-scale search operation is underway, with reinforcements, drones, and sniffer dogs deployed to track them,” he added.
Due to the challenging terrain, security personnel are advancing cautiously, closing off all exit routes, and placing the entire area on high alert.
Tributes to Fallen Officers
The Army’s Rising Star Corps, whose troops are engaged in the operation, praised the sacrifices of J&K Police personnel.
“We salute the valor and indomitable spirit of the brave J&K Police personnel who made the supreme sacrifice during OP Safiyan in Kathua. Their courage and dedication will always be remembered,” the Army stated on X.
Terrorists Possibly Spotted Near Jakhole
Despite an extensive cordon and search operation, some terrorists managed to escape the initial encirclement. Officials suspect they were later spotted near Jakhole, approximately 30 kilometers from the initial encounter site.
Security forces remain on high alert, with the operation expected to continue until all threats are neutralized.
