Fresh encounter breaks out in J&K's Kathua, 3 terrorists trapped

NEW DELHI: A fresh encounter broke out on Monday between terrorists and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua after a police team came under fire from terrorists, news agency PTI reported citing sources.
According to officials, the operation is still underway in the Panjtirthi area of the Ramkote belt.
Meanwhile, a night cordon has been laid to ensure that the three terrorists trapped in the forest do not escape.
This comes days after 2 terrorists affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed were killed in a gunfight with the security forces that lasted more than 20 hours.
Additionally, 4 police men were killed in action after the confrontation which erupted on Thursday when a search team was ambushed by Pakistani terrorists hiding in the woods.
Security forces have since intensified search operations using aerial surveillance and sniffer dogs following a night-long cordon after fresh reports of suspected movement by three individuals, believed to be terrorists, who had escaped.
Earlier in the day, Deputy Inspector General Shiv Kumar Sharma said the operation will continue until the last terrorist is neutralized. He urged the people living near the border to report any suspicious activities.
Six people were detained after receiving fresh reports of suspected movement involving three individuals believed to be terrorists who had escaped after the encounter in Kathua, officials said.
"The operation is ongoing, and as long as there is even one terrorist left, the Jammu and Kashmir Police will persevere in its mission. Our force is dedicated to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety of Jammu and Kashmir," Sharma told reporters in Reasi.
Kathua district has been a key route for militants for over three decades due to its strategic location. It connects Doda and Udhampur districts to the north, providing a passage to Kashmir valley.
Experts said the district’s proximity to the Pakistan border and its rugged terrain with dense forests provide ideal hiding spots for terrorists.