Suspected Pakistani Terrorist Killed in J-K’s Kathua Following Attack on Village

In a tense incident near the International Border (IB) in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir, security forces neutralized a suspected Pakistani terrorist on Tuesday evening. The attack, which took place in Saida Sukhal village near Koota Mode in the Hiranagar sector, left one civilian injured, prompting a large-scale operation to flush out the remaining infiltrators.

The incident unfolded as a significant escalation in the region’s security scenario, coming just two days after a tragic terrorist attack on a bus carrying pilgrims from the Shiv Khori temple to Katra. This earlier attack caused the bus to veer off the road into a deep gorge, resulting in nine fatalities and injuring 41 others.

According to a police spokesperson, the attack in Saida Sukhal village occurred around 7:45 PM when suspicious movement of three individuals was reported. Gunshots were heard shortly after some locals raised an alarm. Security forces, including police and paramilitary units, were swiftly deployed to the area. During the subsequent search operation, one terrorist was killed. The security personnel recovered an AK assault rifle and a rucksack from the deceased, though his identity and group affiliation are still being verified.

The operation to neutralize the remaining terrorists continues according of the latest reports. Senior police officers, including Additional Director General of Police, Jammu, Anand Jain, have arrived on the scene to oversee the ongoing efforts. The region remains on high alert as authorities seek to prevent any further incidents.

In the aftermath of the attack, a civilian identified as Bitu sustained serious injuries to his arm from the terrorist firing. He has been evacuated to a hospital for treatment. Union Minister Jitendra Singh has been closely monitoring the situation, maintaining continuous communication with top civil and police officials in the district, which falls under his Udhampur parliamentary constituency.

Minister Singh stated, “I am in constant touch with DC Kathua Rakesh Minhas and SSP Kathua Anayat Ali Choudhary, who are actively managing the situation on the ground. The house that was targeted by the terrorists belongs to a local villager, and I have been in direct contact with the owner.” He confirmed the elimination of one terrorist and assured that efforts to ensure the safety and security of the residents are ongoing.

The attack has heightened security concerns in the Jammu region, especially following the recent bus tragedy involving Shiv Khori temple pilgrims. Security forces are intensifying their efforts to secure the area and prevent any further infiltration from across the border.

The incident underscores the persistent threat posed by cross-border terrorism and the need for vigilant security measures. As operations continue, the local population remains on edge, hoping for a swift resolution and the restoration of peace in their community.