Intense Search Operation in Kishtwar: Terrorists on the Run

In Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, a large-scale search operation is underway to locate terrorists following a gunfight that resulted in the death of a paratrooper. The operation, which has entered its third day, has led to multiple detentions and the discovery of a fortified hideout stocked with winter supplies. High-ranking officials are supervising the efforts, which include the use of drones and sniffer dogs to navigate the challenging terrain. As security forces intensify their operations in anticipation of Republic Day, intelligence reports suggest that a small group of terrorists may still be trapped in the area.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 20, 2026, 16:07 IST

Ongoing Search for Terrorists in Kishtwar

Jammu: A significant search operation aimed at locating terrorists has entered its third day in the higher regions of Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, as officials reported multiple detentions for questioning.

The operation commenced on Sunday in Sonnar village, located near Mandral-Singhpora in the Chatroo area, resulting in a gunfight that tragically claimed the life of a paratrooper and left seven others injured due to shrapnel from a grenade attack by the terrorists.

Although the terrorists managed to flee into the dense forest, security forces successfully uncovered their fortified hideout, which contained a substantial stockpile of winter supplies, including food, blankets, and cooking utensils.

High-ranking officials, including Bhim Sen Tuti, Inspector General of Police for Jammu Zone, and R. Gopala Krishna Rao, Inspector General of CRPF, have arrived at the scene to oversee the ongoing operation alongside various army personnel.

In a somber tribute, a wreath-laying ceremony was conducted in Jammu to honor the fallen Special Force Commando, Havildar Gajendra Singh, on Tuesday morning.

The ceremony, led by Brig Yudhvir Singh Sekhon, Officiating Chief of Staff of the White Knight Corps, concluded with the transfer of the soldier's remains to his hometown in Uttarakhand for final rites.

On Monday afternoon, authorities detained several individuals for questioning related to the discovery of the hideout, situated at an elevation exceeding 12,000 feet.

Security forces are actively working to identify overground workers (OGWs) who aided the terrorists in acquiring and transporting a significant amount of supplies, sufficient to sustain at least four individuals throughout the winter.

The army's White Knight Corps confirmed via a post on X that Operation Trashi-I is ongoing in Chatroo.

The cordon around the area has been tightened, with search operations expanding. Troops from the corps, along with police and CRPF, are deployed to maintain control over the region.

Officials noted that multiple teams from the army, police, and paramilitary forces, supported by drones and sniffer dogs, are scouring the challenging terrain characterized by dense vegetation and steep inclines, which hinder visibility and movement.

Reports suggest that a small group of two to three terrorists, allegedly linked to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM), may be trapped in the vicinity.

In light of intelligence indicating attempts by Pakistan-based handlers to infiltrate more terrorists into the region, operations have been intensified across Jammu in preparation for Republic Day celebrations.