A massive search operation has been launched in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir following intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the region. The joint operation, involving the Indian Army and the Jammu & Kashmir Police, was initiated on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, after suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists were spotted near civilian areas in Singhpora, Chatroo.
The movement of suspected terrorists close to civilian zones has raised alarms, prompting security forces to cordon off the area swiftly to prevent any potential escape and to track down the suspects. The operation began early in the morning and is still underway, with officials stating that all escape routes have been sealed. As of the latest reports, there has been no direct contact between the security forces and the suspected terrorists.
According to sources, the search operation is focused on the Singhpora forest area of Chatroo, a remote and heavily forested part of Kishtwar. Security forces are meticulously combing the area, ensuring a thorough search to locate any hiding militants. Heavy deployment of security personnel has been ensured to intensify the operation and to prevent any untoward incidents.
The heightened security measures come in the wake of recent encounters in the Chatroo belt during April and May, where three terrorists and a soldier were killed in two separate incidents. These events have kept the security forces on high alert, leading to increased vigilance and proactive measures to neutralize any potential threats.
Security agencies believe that a group of approximately 8 to 10 terrorists from the Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group are active in the Kishtwar area. This group is suspected to be responsible for several incidents in the district. In recent months, security forces have successfully neutralized multiple terrorist groups in Kishtwar, including two terrorists about six months prior and a group of three terrorists last month. These successful operations underscore the ongoing efforts to eliminate terrorism from the region.
In addition to the active search operations, security forces have also been focusing on cracking down on overground workers (OGWs) and terror associates. These individuals provide logistical support, information, and other assistance to the terrorists, enabling them to carry out their activities. By targeting this network of support, the security forces aim to weaken the overall terror infrastructure in the region.
The current search operation is part of a broader strategy to maintain peace and stability in the Jammu and Kashmir region. The security forces are committed to ensuring that terrorists hiding in the area are either neutralized or apprehended as quickly as possible. These ongoing efforts include continuous monitoring, intelligence gathering, and coordinated operations between the army, police, and other security agencies.
The local population has been urged to cooperate with the security forces and provide any information that may assist in the operation. Their support is crucial in ensuring the success of the anti-terror initiatives and in maintaining a secure environment. Authorities have also assured the residents that their safety and security are of paramount importance, and all necessary measures are being taken to protect them from any potential threats.
As the search operation continues, the security forces remain vigilant and committed to their mission of eradicating terrorism from the Kishtwar district. The collaborative efforts of the army, police, and the local community are expected to yield positive results in the days to come, further strengthening the peace and stability of the region.
