Fresh encounter breaks out in Billawar area of J-K's Kathua

Jammu, Jan 13: A fresh encounter broke out between militants and security forces in the Billawar area of Kathua district in Jammu and Kashmir on Tuesday, officials said.

Sources said the gunfight erupted during a cordon and search operation launched by security forces in the area following specific inputs about militant presence. During the operation, militants opened fire on the forces, triggering an exchange of gunfire.

Security forces immediately retaliated, and additional reinforcements were rushed to the area to strengthen the cordon. The encounter was continuing at the time of filing this report.

Officials said the operation is being carried out in a forested and hilly terrain, and forces are maintaining strict vigil to prevent militants from escaping. [KNT]