Counter-terrorism operations in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district have been intensified to track down three suspected Jaish-e-Mohammed-linked terrorists believed to be holed up in the Chatroo forest belt, officials said on Friday.
Mobile internet services have been temporarily suspended within a six-kilometre radius covering Singhpora, Chingam, and Chatroo to prevent misuse by anti-national elements during the ongoing search operation.
The operation, launched on January 18, culminated in a fierce gun battle in the Sonnar forest near Singhpora, after which the terrorists fled the scene. One paratrooper was killed, and seven soldiers were injured in the exchange.
Despite the terrorists escaping by taking advantage of thick foliage, dense forest cover, and treacherous terrain, security forces have continued search and track operations, despite heavy snow accumulation of more than two feet hampers movement in the area.
Two further encounters were reported — one on January 22 at Mali Dana and another on January 25 in the Janseer-Kandiwar area — but on both occasions, the terrorists managed to flee deeper into the forest.
According to an order issued by the J&K Home Department and quoted by an official, the suspension of mobile internet services in Singhpora, Chingam, and Chatroo has been extended until 23:59 hours on January 30.
Mobile internet services in the area were first suspended on January 23 amid the ongoing counter-terror operation.
The measure was authorised by the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu Zone, under the Temporary Suspension of Telecommunication Services Rules, 2024.
Officials said the decision was taken to prevent the possible misuse of high-speed mobile internet by anti-national elements, which could lead to a deterioration of public order in the region.
Separately, security forces have launched a search operation in Pajja Morh, Nabana Top, and adjacent areas of Surankote in Poonch district following information about the presence of two suspected individuals.
According to the latest reports, no contact has been established with the suspected persons so far, and the operation remains ongoing in the area.
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