A massive search operation is underway in the forested Basantgarh belt of Udhampur district, to track down three Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists still at large, officials confirmed on Friday.
The manhunt follows an intense encounter on Thursday in the remote Bihali area, where one terrorist, identified as Haider alias Maulvi from Pakistan, was killed by a joint team of Army Para Commandos and local police.
Drones, Dogs, and Reinforcements Deployed
Security forces resumed their operation early Friday, tightening the cordon around Karoor Nallah, where the terrorists are believed to be hiding. Drones and sniffer dogs have been deployed to assist in the search amid rugged forest terrain.
Officials stated that the terrorists had been under surveillance for nearly a year and were moving cautiously through natural caves and forests, aided by a network of over ground workers (OGWs). Five OGWs have been arrested over recent months for allegedly providing shelter and logistical support.
Local Infiltrator Suspected Among Supporters
Authorities believe a local militant who returned from Pakistan after several years may be actively aiding the group.
Pattern of Infiltration and Past Encounters
Basantgarh is a known infiltration corridor for Pakistani terrorists, with routes extending from the International Border in Kathua to Doda, Kishtwar, and further into Kashmir Valley. The area has witnessed a surge in encounters and attacks in recent months:
- April 25, 2025 – Havaldar Jhantu Ali Shaikh of the Army’s 6 PARA was martyred in a fierce gunbattle.
- April 9, 2025 – An encounter erupted in Jopher-Marta belt.
- April 28, 2024 – Village defence guard Mohammad Sharief was killed while engaging terrorists.
- August 19, 2024 – A CRPF inspector was killed in an encounter in Dudu.
- September 11, 2023 – Two JeM terrorists were neutralized in the upper reaches.
- July 11, 2024 – Terrorists attempted an attack on the Sang police post, thwarted by alert officers.
The ongoing operation underscores the critical security challenge posed by cross-border infiltration and the resilience of security forces operating in difficult terrain.
