Daijiworld Media Network - Jammu

Jammu, Sep 20: A high alert was sounded across Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua, Samba, Udhampur, Doda and Kishtwar districts on Sunday as security forces continued Operation Sohan in the Majalta forests and expanded search operations across the region.

The heightened security measures come days after an encounter in the dense forests of Bartal, Sohan and Khubban, where security forces on September 17 eliminated two Pakistani terrorists affiliated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM).

The operation, which began on the night of September 16, entered its third day amid concerns that a third terrorist, believed to have been injured during the encounter, may still be hiding in the forest.

The Army’s White Knight Corps, Jammu and Kashmir Police and the CRPF have intensified cordon-and-search operations in the area.

According to security sources cited in the report, the operation assumes significance as the area is linked to an old infiltration route extending from the Kathua-Samba border through Majalta, Basantgarh and Ramnagar towards Doda, Bhaderwah and Kishtwar, and further towards south Kashmir.

Security measures have consequently been extended beyond Majalta, with additional joint checkpoints and heightened surveillance in forest and border areas of Samba, Kathua, Udhampur, Doda and Kishtwar.

As part of the operation, security forces are using sniffer dogs, drones and helicopters equipped with thermal surveillance capabilities to trace the suspected injured terrorist.

Mobile phones and other equipment recovered from the slain terrorists have reportedly been sent for forensic examination to establish possible local contacts and identify support networks.

Forensic teams are also examining blood marks and other traces reportedly found along the suspected escape route of the injured terrorist.

Meanwhile, a suspected over-ground worker has reportedly been detained and questioned over allegations of providing logistical assistance and shelter to the group.

Based on information gathered during questioning, security forces are also conducting searches at other suspected hideouts.

Security checks have been intensified on major roads, including the Jammu-Srinagar National Highway, as well as in and around Majalta, Ramnagar, Basantgarh, Billawar and Ramkot.

Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma reportedly praised the White Knight Corps for its action during Operation Sohan and highlighted the coordination between the Army, J&K Police and the CRPF.

Security forces continue to maintain a heightened alert across the region as the search operation remains underway.