Examiner Bureau | Jammu, Feb 22:
An encounter broke out between security forces and terrorists in a remote forested area of Kishtwar district in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday, officials said.
The gunfight erupted in the snow-bound Chatroo forest belt when Army troops launched a cordon-and-search operation following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of two suspected terrorists in the area.
As the search party advanced into the dense forest terrain, the hiding militants reportedly opened fire, triggering an exchange of gunfire. Security forces retaliated, leading to an ongoing encounter.
Officials said additional reinforcements have been rushed to the area to strengthen the cordon and prevent any possible escape. The operation is being carried out in challenging weather conditions, with heavy snow and difficult terrain hampering movement.
The Chatroo forest region has witnessed heightened security activity in recent weeks. Nearly half-a-dozen encounters were reported in the area last month, resulting in the killing of one soldier and a terrorist.
Further details about the ongoing operation are awaited.
