Search operation continued on Tuesday in the Kokernag area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district: Additional enforcement deployed

Srinagar: A search operation continued on Tuesday in the Kokernag area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district, four days after an encounter that resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and a civilian.

Officials reported that additional reinforcements have been deployed to the Gandole-Ahlan area, where the clash with terrorists occurred. The search has been expanded to the Kishtwar-Doda axis, which connects to Kokernag through mountain passes.

The operation comes amid reports of 40-50 foreign mercenaries operating in the hilly districts of Jammu division. In response, the Army has deployed over 4,000 elite soldiers, including Para commandos trained in mountain warfare, to the region.

These terrorists, active in Poonch, Rajouri, Doda, Kathua, Reasi, and Udhampur districts, have conducted surprise ambush attacks against security forces and civilians. To counter these tactics, the Army and CRPF have been stationed on mountain tops.

The Jammu and Kashmir Police have released sketches of some of the terrorists and announced a reward of Rs 5 lakh for actionable information leading to their capture. The identity of informers will be kept confidential to encourage public cooperation.

The presence of these terrorists has significantly impacted daily life and the safety of families living near the forested areas where the terrorists are believed to be hiding.