Terrorist attack in J&K's Kathua: one killed in encounter at residential house

Gunshots were heard near Saida Sukhal village in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir, as security forces intensified their efforts to track down terrorists. These terrorists had recently attacked a bus carrying pilgrims in the Reasi district, resulting in the deaths of nine people and injuries to 42 others.

One terrorist was killed in an encounter with security forces after gunmen opened fire on a house in the Hiranagar area of Kathua. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh confirmed the incident, noting that he was in continuous contact with local authorities, including DC Kathua Rakesh Minhas and SSP Kathua Anayat Ali Choudhary, who are on the scene. Singh stated that the owner of the attacked house is safe and in touch with the authorities via mobile phone.

Joint operation launched

The police and the Border Security Force (BSF) have launched a joint operation in the area to locate and apprehend the remaining gunmen. Residents of Saida Sukhal village reported hearing gunshots and spotting two to three armed individuals, who then fled into nearby forests. The joint police and paramilitary operation is ongoing, with one terrorist neutralized so far.

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This attack follows the tragic bus attack in the Reasi district, which is suspected to have been carried out by the Pakistan-based terror group Lashkar-e-Taiba. In response, security forces have deployed 11 teams, including police, Army, and CRPF personnel, to the Ranso-Poni-Treyath belt to search for the terrorists. Deputy Inspector General of Police, Udhampur-Reasi Range, Rayees Mohammad Bhat, stated that they have obtained some leads and are working on two different axes to capture the remaining suspects.

The search operation is being conducted with a multi-directional cordon around the area where the Reasi bus attack took place. Security forces are determined to neutralize the fleeing terrorists and ensure the safety of the region. Further details are awaited as the operation continues.

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