Jammu, Feb 23:
Security forces have successfully eliminated all four hardcore terrorists of the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammad operating in the rugged Chhatru belt of Kishtwar district, culminating a sustained counter-terror operation codenamed Operation Trashi-I.
The development was confirmed during a joint media briefing by General Officer Commanding, Counter Insurgency Force (Delta), Major General A.P.S. Bal, and Inspector General of Police, Jammu Zone, B.S. Tuti, IPS, on Monday — a day after three terrorists, including dreaded commander Saifullah, were neutralised in the Passerkut area of Chhatru.
Relentless Pursuit in Harsh Terrain
Addressing the media, the officers said the terror group had been under close watch for months. Operations against the group began in April–May last year and were sustained despite heavy rains and snowfall during winter.
Earlier operations had led to the elimination of three hardcore terrorists in April 2025. However, the group’s latest commander, code-named Saifullah, along with his close associate Adil and two others, had managed to evade security forces and remained on the run.
Based on coordinated intelligence inputs from the Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP), Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Army sources, a joint counter-terrorist operation was formally launched on January 14, 2026, in the Chhatru region. The operation was spearheaded by troops of the Counter Insurgency Force (CIF) Delta under the aegis of the White Knight Corps, in close coordination with the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Central Reserve Police Force.
Contact with the terrorists was first established on January 18, when their well-stocked hideout was busted.
Key Eliminations and Final Encounter
On February 4, 2026, one terrorist code-named Adil was neutralised under Operation Trashi-I. On the same day, two more terrorists were killed in a separate action, Operation Kiya. Security forces maintained relentless pressure thereafter to track down the remaining militants.
The final engagement occurred at approximately 11:00 am on February 22, 2026. Security forces had cordoned off the steep slopes of a rugged mountain during the intervening night of February 21–22. In the ensuing gunfight, three terrorists, including Saifullah, were eliminated.
During the search of the encounter site, security forces recovered war-like stores, including three AK-47 rifles, along with the bodies of the slain militants.
Tactical Precision, Zero Casualties
Major General A.P.S. Bal highlighted that the operation was conducted with “exceptional tactical precision and swiftness,” ensuring zero casualties among security personnel.
He also made special mention of Army dog Tyson, who entered a ‘dhok’ (temporary shelter) to confirm the presence of terrorists. The militants opened fire during the action, and the canine sustained injuries.
Reinforcements, including special forces, were rapidly mobilised during the operation. The Army deployed real-time surveillance drones and night-vision equipment to track and contain terrorist movement, preventing any escape.
Six Terrorists Eliminated in 20 Days
Major General Bal stated that troops under CIF (Delta), operating under Northern Command and in close coordination with JKP and CRPF, have eliminated six Pakistan-sponsored terrorists in their area of responsibility over the past 20 days.
He reiterated that intelligence-based operations would continue and that security forces remain committed to maintaining operational dominance in the region.
The successful culmination of Operation Trashi-I marks a significant counter-terror achievement in the challenging and mountainous terrain of Kishtwar, reinforcing the resolve of security forces to deny any sanctuary to terrorist groups in Jammu and Kashmir.
