J&K: Two Terrorist Groups Trapped in Udhampur Encounter, 1 Defence Guard Member Killed

Udhampur: In a major development, several terrorists from Pakistan were trapped in an encounter with security forces at Udhampur-Kathua border in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday morning. There are two terror groups operational in the emcounter. According to sources, the terrorists are said to have infiltrated in the third week of April and are highly trained. Mohd Shareef, a member of Village Defence Guard (VDG) who was injured during the gunfight, succumbed to his injuries. Republic has learnt that China-made green lacquered bullets were used by the Pakistani terrorists to kill the guard. Steel core bullets were also used by terrorists in Udhampur, the same bullets used by Pakistani terrorists to kill seven Hindus in the Dhangri area of Rajouri in J&K.

The top brass of J&K Police, the Indian Army and CRPF were present to pay tribute to martyr Mohd Shareef in the wreath-laying ceremony.

Sources said the Sunday encounter erupted after terrorists hiding in the area opened fire at security forces, who retaliated, resulting in a gunfight. The security forces were carrying out a search operation in the Kandli area of Udhampur-Kathua border when the encounter broke out. 

After receiving inputs regarding movement of suspicious individuals late last evening, the Jammu and Kashmir Police activated the security grid in Basantgarh police station limits of Udhampur district. 

1 Village Defence Guard Dead, 4 Untraceable

This morning, a party of Police Picket Sang along with VDG members proceeded towards Chochru Gala Heights where around 7.45 am, a face off ensued between the police party and a group of hiding terrorists. A group of nine VDG had gone to trace them and out of them, one succumbed to his injuries, four are in contact with the police whereas four others are untraceable.  

Search Operation Underway, Army's Special Forces Roped in

The area has been cordoned off, as the search operation is still underway. More security personnel have been rushed to the region. The special forces of the Army have joined the operation, besides the Jammu and Kashmir Police. The terrorists infiltrated from the Pakistan side via the Jammu-Punjab International Border in April 2024. The infiltrators are likely to be associated with Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terror group.

Suspected Terrorist Equipped With Automatic Rifles: Locals

As per the locals who have seen the suspected terrorists, they are equipped with automatic rifles and also have some backpacks with them. They are said to be moving in the area in pairs. Forces suspect around eight to nine terrorists are hiding in the region. The ADG, Jammu zone, was on his way to reach the site of operation.

The terrorists are said to be confined in the area that the forces have encircled. More details are awaited.