Taking swift action over reports of possible movement of terrorists in the area, Security forces on Tuesday launched cordon and search operations along border areas and the mountainous hinterland of Poonch and Kishtwar districts of Jammu and Kashmir as part of heightened anti-terror measures.
Acting on inputs about the presence of two terrorist groups operating in the Doda-Kishtwar forest areas, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in the Keshwan-Chatroo valley after apprehending terrorist movement, officials said.Troops used drones and other aerial surveillance equipment to monitor the area in a bid to track down the terrorists, they added.
According to reports, two groups of Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists, with two to three operatives each, are believed to be present in the area, which has witnessed encounters in the past.The Romeo Force of the Army also conducted search operations at Khanetar Top along the Indo-Pak border in Poonch and adjoining areas following suspected terrorist movement, officials said, adding that the troops were equipped with aerial surveillance support and sniffer dogs.
Additionally, security forces have intensified vehicle checking along the Pathankot-Jammu-Srinagar national highway in Kathua, Samba, Jammu and Udhampur districts as part of heightened alert ahead of the New Year.The border security grid too has been further strengthened. The police have activated Village Defence Guards and border police along the Indo-Pak border in view of possible infiltration from across the border, officials said.
Meanwhile, Police in Udhampur and Jammu have issued advisory and safety guidelines for New Year festivities, in order to maintain order. Officials warned that while they want people to enjoy the celebrations, there will be a zero-tolerance policy toward dangerous driving and illegal substances.
Prehlad Kumar, Deputy Superintendent of Police Headquarters, Udhampur, said, “We are expecting a lot of rush in view of the upcoming New Year. For the safety of tourists, we have coordinated with various agencies, including the CRPF, the Army, the district police, and the ITBP, and established check posts. Tourists should not travel with any narcotic substance, should not perform any stunts or create chaos, and should celebrate their New Year fully.”
On Sunday, in view of the heavy rush of pilgrims expected on December 31 and during the New Year, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Reasi, Paramvir Singh, JKPS, conducted a comprehensive security review meeting at Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Bhawan to ensure the safety and smooth movement of devotees.
During the meeting, the SSP directed all concerned officers and agencies to remain highly alert and proactive, given the anticipated surge in pilgrims. Special emphasis was placed on effective crowd management to prevent untoward incidents, including stampedes, and to regulate movement at sensitive points within and around the Bhawan area.
Follow us
