Udhampur: The counter-terrorism operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur district remains underway following the killing of two Pakistani terrorists associated with Jaish-e-Mohammad in the Majalta area.
The operation, being conducted under the name Operation Sohan, covers the forested and mountainous areas around Brattal Sohan and Khubban. Security forces are continuing searches and surveillance to determine whether other members of the group remain in the area.
The two terrorists killed during the operation have been identified as Saddam and Mustafa. Both were described by security agencies as Pakistani Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists. After completion of the required legal formalities, their bodies were buried late on Thursday night.
Three terrorists involved in the exchange of fire
According to security sources, three terrorists were involved in the exchange of fire after the security forces established a cordon in the area. Two of them, Saddam and Mustafa, were killed. The third terrorist is believed to have been injured.
Blood-stained footprints were subsequently found in the area. Security forces are therefore considering the possibility that an injured terrorist may have moved into another part of the forest and taken shelter at a concealed location.
The possibility that more than two terrorists may still be present has led security agencies to expand the search area.
Search extended towards Basantgarh and Kathua
Search operations are being carried out from the Brattal-Khubban forest belt towards Basantgarh and areas adjoining Kathua district. Security agencies are also maintaining heightened alert towards Kathua and Samba.
Possible movement routes and suspected locations are being searched as part of the operation. Security forces are working to ensure that any terrorist who may have escaped the immediate encounter area does not move into another part of the region.
The Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force are coordinating their operations.
Operation began on September 16 night
The operation began on the night of September 16 after intelligence inputs indicated the possible presence of terrorists in the Brattal area.
Security forces launched a joint cordon and search operation covering the Brattal Sohan and Khubban forests. The operation continued despite difficult terrain, poor visibility and challenging weather conditions.
An exchange of fire subsequently took place between the security forces and the suspected terrorists. Two bodies were recovered following the encounter, along with weapons and ammunition.
Suspected over-ground worker detained
A suspected over-ground worker has also been detained in connection with the operation. Police and security agencies are questioning the individual and examining his contacts and activities.
Investigators are trying to determine whether the person had any connection with the terrorists or provided them with any form of assistance.
The investigation is continuing and the nature of the person's involvement, if any, will depend on the outcome of the inquiry. Blood trails increase focus on search operation
The discovery of blood-stained footprints has added another important element to the ongoing search. Security personnel are checking areas where an injured person could potentially have taken shelter.
The dense forest and mountainous terrain make the search difficult. Forces are therefore examining the area in stages while maintaining surveillance over possible routes leading out of the forest.
Security alert across adjoining areas
Security agencies have increased surveillance in parts of Udhampur, Kathua and nearby areas. The focus is not limited to the location where the encounter took place.
Possible routes connecting the forests with other areas are being monitored to prevent any remaining terrorist from escaping the security cordon.
The operation is being conducted with coordination among multiple security and intelligence agencies.
Saddam and Mustafa buried after legal formalities
The two Pakistani terrorists killed during the operation, identified as Saddam and Mustafa, were buried late Thursday night after the completion of legal formalities.
Security agencies are also examining the identities, movements and possible networks associated with the two men. Weapons and other material recovered from the encounter site are being examined for possible leads.
Operation Sohan continues
The search operation remains underway in the forests of Majalta. The immediate objective of the security forces is to locate any remaining terrorist presence and secure the area.
The exact number of terrorists who may still be hiding in the forest has not been independently established. Security agencies are continuing the operation while monitoring the surrounding forest and mountainous areas.
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