Intensified Search Operation Underway in Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri District
Operation Sherawali Escalates in Rajouri
The ongoing 'Operation Sherawali' in Rajouri district, Jammu and Kashmir, has entered a critical and perilous phase. Joint teams from the army, Jammu and Kashmir police, and CRPF are conducting extensive operations for the fourth consecutive day, searching dense forests in Dori Mal and Ghamir Mogla for hidden terrorists. Security agencies suspect that two to three heavily armed militants may be concealed in the area, potentially including a former Pakistani special forces commando.
Initial Engagement and Ongoing Operations
Following intelligence reports, security forces initiated a cordon and search operation on Saturday. During this operation, an encounter occurred between the militants and security personnel in the Ghamir Mogla area, leading to intermittent gunfire. The army's White Knight Corps reported that contact with the militants was first established around 11:30 AM on Saturday, prompting continuous surveillance and search efforts in the region.
Aerial Surveillance and Ground Operations
On Tuesday morning, the fourth day of the operation, helicopters were deployed for aerial surveillance. Helicopters circled over the dense forests of Dori Mal while ground teams from the army, police, and CRPF conducted thorough searches within the woods. Security agencies believe that the militants may be injured and are constantly changing locations to evade capture.
Local Impact and Ongoing Threats
Over the past three days, the area has experienced multiple instances of gunfire and explosions. On Monday, heavy firing and blasts reverberated throughout the region, with local residents reporting that the sounds could be heard several kilometers away, creating a climate of fear in nearby villages. Security forces are proceeding with heightened caution due to the geographical features of the forest, which provide cover for the militants.
Discovery of a Terrorist Hideout
During the operation, security forces uncovered a concealed terrorist hideout within the forest. This hideout was meticulously constructed among bushes and trees, containing food supplies, water bottles, pickles, clothing, bags, soft drinks, and other essential items. Officials also discovered bloodstains at the site, raising concerns that one or more militants may have been injured. Consequently, security agencies are intensifying search operations in surrounding areas.
Enhanced Security Measures
To bolster the operation, security forces have employed drones, search dogs, and additional personnel. Every activity within the forest is being monitored closely. Authorities have stated that the operation will continue until the entire area is declared secure. The region has been sealed off, with strict surveillance on civilian movement.
Leadership Oversight and Strategic Challenges
Given the seriousness of the operation, Jammu Zone IG Bhim Sen Tooti and CRPF IG Amul V. Homkar have arrived in Rajouri. They visited the operation site, meeting with senior security officials to review the situation. During this time, Major General Vijay, GOC of the Romeo Force, DIG Sandeep Wazir of the Rajouri Poonch Range, and SSP Gaurav Sikarwar provided updates on the operation's progress.
Conclusion: Ongoing Vigilance
The Dori Mal and Ghamir Mogla area presents significant challenges for security forces due to its dense forests, rugged terrain, and difficult pathways. Nevertheless, the security forces are advancing with extreme caution and an aggressive strategy. Currently, a high level of alertness is in place, and the operation is expected to continue until the militants are apprehended or neutralized.