Kishtwar, July 21, 2025 : Security forces on Monday resumed a massive search operation to track down a group of terrorists hiding in the dense Khankoo forest of Cherji area, located between Dachhan and Nagseni in Kishtwar district.
The joint operation by the Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police was initially launched on Sunday afternoon following intelligence inputs. It led to a brief encounter with terrorists believed to be affiliated with the banned Hizbul Mujahideen group, including two top militants carrying rewards of ₹30 lakh each, officials said.
After the exchange of fire, reinforcements were deployed, and a large-scale combing operation was launched. The operation was temporarily halted late Sunday and resumed early Monday with the use of drones, sniffer dogs, and expanded troop deployment.
Officials said all escape routes have been sealed. However, thick vegetation and difficult terrain continue to pose challenges in the ongoing operation.
