Rajouri: A search operation has been launched in the Beeranthub area under the jurisdiction of Police Station Kandi in Rajouri district following an exchange of fire between militants and security forces last night.
Officials said that the encounter broke out when security forces were conducting a cordon and search operation based on intelligence inputs regarding the presence of militants in the area. The exchange of fire continued for some time before the militants reportedly fled into the nearby dense forests. The operation was suspended due to darkness and resumed at first light on Tuesday morning.
Reinforcements from the Army and police were rushed to the area to strengthen the cordon and prevent the militants from escaping. “The operation has been reinitiated with full intensity. Search teams are combing the forest, and choppers and sniffer dogs have been pressed into service to trace the hiding militants,” an official source said.
The Beeranthub forest, known for its tough terrain and thick vegetation, poses challenges for security personnel engaged in the operation. Authorities have also tightened security in adjoining areas to block possible escape routes.
The operation was in progess at the time of filing this report. [KNT]
