Chatroo, J&K: A massive search operation is underway in the Chatroo area of Jammu and Kashmir's Kishtwar district, aimed at tracking down and neutralizing hiding militants. The operation was initiated following an encounter between security forces and terrorists in the dense forests of the Kanzal Mandu area on Wednesday.

The security forces, acting on specific intelligence inputs regarding terrorist movements, launched a cordon and search operation in the Kuchal area around 7:45 pm, which led to the initial exchange of fire. As of Thursday, no fresh contact had been established with the hiding terrorists, but the operation continues.

The search has been expanded to the Chatroo forest region. It is believed that two to three militants are hiding in the area. The challenging terrain, characterized by dense forest cover, has complicated the efforts to locate the militants. The dense canopy makes it difficult for drones to penetrate, adding to the complexity of the operation.

Security forces are utilizing a multi-pronged approach, deploying helicopters, drones, and sniffer dogs to aid in the search. Additional troops have been brought in to reinforce the cordon and prevent the militants from escaping. The operation involves commandos from 2 Para, troops of 11 Rashtriya Rifles, the Special Operations Group (SOG), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and personnel from the 5 Sector Assam Rifles.

Intermittent firing occurred between security forces and the militants until 2 am on Thursday, with searchlights illuminating the night sky. Authorities believe that one of the militants may have been injured during the exchange of fire. There is also a suspicion that a Jaish terrorist named Adil is among the hiding militants.

This operation marks the second encounter in the Jammu region within a week. On June 26, security forces killed a Jaish-e-Mohammed militant in Udhampur district, while three of his associates escaped.

The army's White Knight Corps confirmed the ongoing operation on X, stating, "Based on specific #intelligence a joint search operation was underway in Kanzal Mandu, #Kishtwar. Contact has been established with the #terrorists and #operations are in progress".

The security forces are committed to tracking down the militants and restoring peace and stability to the region. The operation is ongoing, and further updates are awaited.