KATHUA ENCOUNTER: Security forces launch “search and destroy” operation in Panjtirthi forests

STC NEWS DESK
JAMMU, APRIL 01 (STC): Security forces have launched a massive search operation in Panjtirthi area of Kathua district on Tuesday, says an official report.
“Suspected terrorists were spotted by security forces while heading towards Billawar mountains. They (terrorists) were engaged in the gun battle by the security forces . The encounter lasted for about 40 minutes and it was halted till morning,” officials said.
They further said that a joint team of Army, J&K Police & CRPF launched a massive search and destroy operations with the first light of the day this morning.
“Search & Destroy Operations launched at first light on April 1, in progress,” officials’ spokesperson of Army’s Rising Star Corps said in a statement to Media.
A spokesperson for the J&K Police while talking to media said, “Our forces acted swiftly on intelligence inputs, and the ongoing operation reflects our commitment to countering any threats to stability in Jammu and Kashmir. We are working closely with the Indian Army and CRPF to ensure a thorough response. The public is urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with security personnel as operations continue. Updates will be provided as the situation develops.”

It’s worth mentioning that six members of a family, including four women, for allegedly helping the terrorists involved in last week’s Kathua encounter in which four policemen were killed have already been detained by the police.
Media reports quoting sources said the six detained were family members of an overground worker who is already in jail for allegedly providing logistical support for terrorists who attacked an Army convoy in Kathua’s Badnota village last year, killing five soldiers.(STC)