J&K Encounter: 4 Policemen Martyred, 3 Terrorists Killed in Kathua Gunfight

Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir: A fierce gunbattle in the dense forests of Kathua district claimed the lives of four policemen while security forces gunned down three terrorists on Thursday. The encounter, which began around 8 AM near Jakhole village in the Ghati Juthana area, was part of intensified operations against a recently infiltrated group of terrorists, suspected to be from the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit.

The Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, assisted by the Indian Army and CRPF, led the operation. Seven other policemen, including a Deputy Superintendent of Police (SDPO), sustained injuries in the prolonged exchange of fire. The SDPO was later evacuated, but three of his personal security officers were found dead. Another missing policeman’s body was located using a drone on Friday.

The Rising Star Corps of the Indian Army paid tribute to the fallen policemen, stating, "Their courage and dedication will always be remembered." Security forces are expected to resume operations on Friday to recover the bodies of the slain terrorists and locate any remaining militants in the area.