The multi-tier combing operation launched by security forces to track down a group of infiltrating terrorists continued for the fourth consecutive day on Wednesday in forest areas of Kathua district.
Official sources said the search operation is concurrently underway in multiple areas from Sanyal to Ding Amb and beyond, covering several kilometers.
The operation involving the army, NSG, BSF, police, Special Operation Group, and CRPF armed with technical and surveillance equipment, is supported by helicopter, UAVs, drones, bulletproof vehicles, and sniffer dogs.
Security agencies have questioned several persons in various areas and picked up three suspects for questioning, they said.
During the search operation on Tuesday, security forces recovered two grenades. On Monday, security forces recovered four loaded magazines of M4 carbine, a bulletproof jacket, sleeping bags, tracksuits and several packets of food.
The operation led by Director General of Police Nalin Prabhat was launched on Sunday evening in the Hiranagar sector following an encounter between security forces and terrorists hiding in a nursery.
The Special Operations Group of police initiated the operation after receiving intelligence about terrorists hiding inside a ”dhok” in a nursery in Sanyal village, approximately five kilometers from the International Border with Pakistan, officials said.
The hiding terrorists opened fire on the police team, resulting in a prolonged gunfight lasting over half an hour.
A 7-year old girl sustained injuries after being hit by a spray bullet.
Security has been intensified along the Jammu-Pathankot National Highway in the Samba-Kathua section, with increased vigilance on border roads, officials said