Jammu, Jan 17 (KNO): The security forces Friday conducted a massive Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in the upper reaches of Kathua district following intelligence reports about the presence of terrorists in Billawar area.
Officials told the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) that in a coordinated effort, the special forces of the Army in collaboration with the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), launched the CASO in Billawar.
Security forces have cordoned off the area and were conducting extensive searches to locate the suspected terrorists.
Locals have been advised to remain indoors and cooperate with the authorities. Additional reinforcements have been deployed to track down the terrorists.
Jammu region remained disturbed in 2024 where terrorist incidents were reported in all the 10 districts including Udhampur, Kathua, Doda, Kishtwar, Samba, Doda, Reasi, Rajouri Poonch and Ramban.
In July last year, five soldiers, including a Junior Commissioned Officer (JCO), were killed and five others were injured when a group of terrorists ambushed two army vehicles on patrolling duty near Badnota village in Billawar-Kathua district.
Later security forces killed two terrorists in Kog-Mandli village in Billawar tehsil in September 2024. The encounter also resulted in the death of a police head constable and injuries to an assistant sub-inspector—(KNO)