Jammu, February 10, 2026 – Security forces have launched a comprehensive cordon and search operation (CASO) in the Malhar area of Billawar tehsil in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district, following reports from local villagers who spotted three suspicious individuals. The operation, initiated late on February 9, comes amid heightened vigilance in the region, with reinforcements deployed to track down the suspects believed to be hiding in forested areas.
According to sources, villagers in the area noticed unusual movements, prompting an immediate response from joint teams including the Jammu and Kashmir Police’s Special Operations Group (SOG), Indian Army, and paramilitary forces. The suspects were described as potentially armed, leading to the cordoning off of multiple villages and the intensification of patrols in remote, high-altitude zones. As of early February 10, no direct contact with the suspects has been reported, but the search continues with drones and ground teams combing the terrain.
This incident echoes a series of similar operations in Kathua over the past month. On January 24, a high alert was sounded in the Billawar area after villagers chased away suspected intruders, triggering a large-scale manhunt. Earlier, on January 13-14, security forces exchanged gunfire with terrorists in the Najote forest area, where intermittent firing was heard during a search prompted by intelligence on terrorist movements. In that operation, reinforcements sealed off over a dozen villages, though no suspects were apprehended at the time.
Officials have noted that these activities are part of broader security measures ahead of key national events, with tightened controls in border villages to counter potential infiltration or terrorist hideouts. In related developments, joint operations in late January led to the busting of terrorist hideouts in areas like Kalikhad, where arms and explosives were recovered.
Local residents have been advised to remain vigilant and report any unusual activity, as the region has seen sporadic reports of suspicious movements in recent months, including in Juthana village last October and August. Authorities emphasize that public cooperation is crucial in maintaining peace in this sensitive border district.
The operation remains ongoing, with updates expected as more details emerge. Security agencies have reiterated their commitment to neutralizing any threats to ensure the safety of civilians in Jammu and Kashmir.
