An exchange of gunfire between security forces and terrorists occurred in Kathua district, Jammu and Kashmir, officials reported on Tuesday. The Jammu and Kashmir Police stated that the clash began late Monday night in the Billawar area after security forces initiated a large-scale search and cordon operation. The area has been secured, and a search operation is ongoing to locate the terrorists. Further details are expected as the operation progresses.

On Monday, security forces escalated their efforts against terrorists in Kathua. Shiv Kumar Sharma, DIG of the Jammu-Samba-Kathua range, confirmed that the operation to apprehend the terrorists is still ongoing, and some individuals have been detained by the police. He assured that the Jammu and Kashmir Police will continue their efforts until the terrorists are neutralized, emphasizing the commitment of every soldier to eliminate the terrorists in a targeted manner to ensure the safety of the region. Sharma also noted that the Army is cooperating in the search operations, and the public is alert, providing valuable information for action.

DIG Sharma expressed sorrow over the loss of one soldier during the encounter but highlighted the high morale and excellent training of the forces. Authorities have heightened security across the region as the operation continues. Earlier, during the 'Safiyan' counter-terror operation in Kathua, four Jammu and Kashmir police officers were killed, while two terrorists were eliminated. Security forces also seized war-like materials from the encounter site. The operation began on March 23, after locals reported seeing suspected Pakistani infiltrators in Sanyal.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from PTI.