KATHUA, January 13, 2026:- A fresh encounter broke out between Security forces and a group of terrorists in the Billawar area of Kathua district on Tuesday.
According to highly placed sources, the gunfight erupted during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in the Jutha forest belt when hiding terrorists, suspected to be members of the Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), opened fire on a joint team of security personnel.
The forces were conducting a routine patrol and search of the dense terrain based on intelligence inputs when they were targeted, prompting an immediate and heavy retaliation.
While the exchange of fire continues to be reported from the site, there has been no official confirmation from the police or Army headquarters regarding the specific details of the encounter Security forces have tightened the perimeter to prevent any escape through the thick vegetation, and additional reinforcements have been dispatched to the area.
Highly placed sources indicate that the operation is still in its active stage, with the “hitting” zone cordoned off, but official statements are expected only after the situation is stabilized. Further details regarding the number of terrorists and the outcome of the engagement are currently awaited.
