Kathua (Jammu & Kashmir):
An encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in the Billawar area of Kathua district on Tuesday after militants opened fire during a cordon and search operation (CASO), officials said.
According to preliminary information, security forces had launched a search operation in the area following specific intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists. During the operation, terrorists belonging to the Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) fired upon the forces, triggering a gunfight.
Security forces have effectively cordoned off the area and are engaging the terrorists. Additional reinforcements have been rushed to the spot to ensure the operation is conducted safely and to prevent the militants from escaping.
No official confirmation has been made so far regarding casualties on either side. The situation remains tense, and the operation is still underway.
More details are awaited as the encounter continues.
