Massive anti-militancy operation launched in Kathua’s Malhar

Kathua, Sep 22: Security forces on Monday launched a massive anti-militancy operation in the Malhar area of Kathua district after two suspected armed militants were seen in Dragal village.

Officials said that Jammu and Kashmir Police, Indian Army, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) are jointly conducting the search operation. The area has been cordoned off and extensive searches are underway to track down the suspected militants.

“The operation was initiated following credible inputs about the movement of two armed militants. The objective is to neutralise them and prevent any untoward incident,” a senior police officer told the news agency Kashmir News Trust.

Locals in the area reported heightened movement of security personnel since morning, with forces fanning out in dense forest belts and higher reaches of Malhar. Specialised teams including sniffer dogs and surveillance units have also been pressed into service.

Officials confirmed that intermittent searches are being carried out in multiple hamlets around Dragal, with all exit points sealed to prevent the suspects from escaping. So far, no contact has been established with the suspected militants.

The Kathua sector has witnessed heightened vigil in recent months due to reports of infiltration attempts across the International Border and the Line of Control. Security officials said that efforts are underway to ensure militants do not find shelter or escape routes in the region’s rugged terrain.

Authorities have urged locals to remain indoors and report any suspicious movement to security forces. “The safety of civilians remains our priority while the operation continues,” an official said.

The operation was still in progress when last reports came in. [KNT]