Jammu: The recent series of encounters in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district have exposed a traditional infiltration route used by terrorists crossing over from across the International Border (IB), according to Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Kathua, Shobhit Saxena.
Speaking to reporters at Rajbagh police station, where a large cache of seized arms, explosives, and survival gear was displayed, the SSP revealed that four encounters took place in Kathua over the past month, leading to the killing of two heavily armed terrorists and the recovery of significant weaponry.
The first major confrontation occurred in Saniyal forest in Hiranagar sector, followed by a deadly encounter in Safiyan forest on March 27, in which four police personnel were martyred. Despite this loss, Saxena said security forces succeeded in scuttling a major terror plot aimed at striking within Jammu and Kashmir.
“We are in pursuit of the remaining three to four terrorists who are on the run. We are confident of tracking and neutralizing them soon,” Saxena said, assuring that a tight security grid from the border villages to the hinterland is actively working to secure the region.
He emphasized that the encounters “exposed their traditional infiltration route,” vowing that it would no longer be accessible for terrorist activities. “The evidence clearly shows they came prepared for a long stay with serious intentions,” he added.
Seized materials included: Two AK-series assault rifles, One M4 carbine, Grenades, High-grade explosives, Navigation gadgets, Pakistan-made medicines, food items, and daily-use supplies, A small quantity of heroin, indicating drug use by the terrorists.
Saxena said the seizure of explosive material prevented planned IED attacks, while the presence of narcotics suggested drug consumption among the infiltrators.
Praising public cooperation, the SSP said, “The civil population helped us a lot by providing timely information. Their support has been critical in planning and executing operations against the fugitives.”
Regarding local involvement, 30 individuals have been identified and booked under the Public Safety Act (PSA) for allegedly aiding the infiltrators.
Saxena concluded by reaffirming the commitment of security forces to dismantling any terrorist networks attempting to destabilize the region, adding, “We did not allow them to succeed in their nefarious designs.” (KINS)
Terror infiltration route exposed in Kathua: SSP
