Two Jaish-e-Mohammad terrorists killed in drone-assisted operation in Jammu & Kashmir

Srinagar: In a major counter-terrorism success, Indian security forces eliminated two Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terrorists who were hiding inside a cave in the dense forest area of Ramnagar in Udhampur district of Jammu and Kashmir. The operation, carried out with the help of advanced drone surveillance, lasted through the night and ended with the neutralisation of both militants.

According to official sources, the operation was launched following specific intelligence inputs provided by Jammu and Kashmir Police regarding the presence of terrorists in the Zofar forest area of Basantgarh. Acting on the information, a joint team comprising the CIF Delta Force, White Knight Corps of the Indian Army, J&K Police and CRPF cordoned off the area and began a systematic search operation.

The Indian Army’s White Knight Corps confirmed the development through a post on social media platform X, stating that a well-coordinated and controlled anti-terror operation was conducted using modern technology and tactical planning. The statement added that the terrorists were located inside a cave deep within the forest and all escape routes were effectively sealed.

One of the slain militants has been identified as Rubani alias Abu Muawiya, a top commander of the Jaish-e-Mohammad terror outfit. The identity of the second terrorist is yet to be officially confirmed. Security agencies believe both were involved in planning and executing several terror-related activities in the region.

Sources revealed that the encounter began on Monday when security personnel conducting a routine combing operation came in contact with the militants. A brief exchange of fire took place, after which the terrorists fled into the thick forest to evade capture. To track their movement, forces deployed drones, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other surveillance equipment.

Drone footage later confirmed that the terrorists had taken shelter inside a cave. When they attempted to escape, security forces opened fire, forcing them back into hiding. Elite Para Commandos were then pressed into action to surround the location and carry out a precise assault, ultimately resulting in the elimination of both terrorists.

Meanwhile, search operations are continuing in nearby Chatroo forest area of Kishtwar district, where at least three more terrorists are believed to be hiding. As a precautionary measure, mobile internet services have been temporarily suspended in the region to prevent any communication among terrorist groups.

The intensified operations come in the wake of a deadly encounter on January 18, in which one Para Commando was martyred and eight security personnel were injured during a gunfight with militants. Since then, massive search drives have been underway in Chatroo, Singhpora and Chingum areas to flush out remaining terrorists.

Security officials suspect that the militants operating in these forest belts are highly trained in jungle warfare and are attempting to regroup. To counter this threat, the Army and police have launched “Operation Kiya” across the dense forest regions of Kathua, Poonch, Rajouri, Udhampur, Doda and Kishtwar districts.

Authorities have assured that operations will continue until the entire area is cleared of terrorist presence, reaffirming India’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in Jammu and Kashmir.