Jammu, Jan 23: Security forces achieved a significant victory against terrorism on Friday, neutralizing a Pakistani Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorist in a meticulously planned joint operation in the Billawar area of Kathua district, Jammu and Kashmir, officials confirmed.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Jammu announced the successful encounter through a post on X, stating: “A Pakistani Jaish terrorist has been neutralized by a small JKP team in a joint operation with the Army and CRPF in the general area of Billawar, Kathua district.” The operation underscores the seamless coordination among Jammu and Kashmir Police (JKP), Indian Army, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) in tackling cross-border terrorism threats.
The Billawar sector, located close to the Line of Control (LoC), has emerged as a hotspot for terrorist infiltrations and subversive activities in recent months. Reliable intelligence inputs about the presence of a high-value JeM operative—a Pakistani national with links to multiple attacks—prompted the swift launch of the joint cordon and search operation early Friday morning.
Security forces, acting on specific leads, established a tight cordon around the terrorist hideout in the forested, hilly terrain of Billawar. When challenged, the terrorist opened heavy fire, triggering an intense exchange that lasted several hours. Displaying remarkable professionalism, the joint team neutralized the threat without suffering any casualties on their side.
Preliminary investigations revealed the neutralized terrorist as a seasoned JeM commander who had infiltrated from across the border. He was reportedly involved in radicalization activities, arms smuggling, and planning attacks on security installations and soft targets in the Jammu region. Recovery of incriminating materials—including weapons, ammunition, Pakistan-made explosives, and communication devices—from the encounter site corroborated his foreign terrorist links and operational role.
This elimination marks another blow to JeM’s attempts to revive terror infrastructure in Jammu province following intensified counter-terrorism measures post-Operation Sindoor and subsequent security grid consolidations.
The operation assumes added significance with Republic Day celebrations approaching on January 26. Security establishments across Jammu and Kashmir remain on high alert to foil any attempts at disruption. Kathua district, part of the strategic Hiranagar-Billawar belt, has witnessed several high-profile encounters in recent years, reflecting the area’s vulnerability to Pakistan-sponsored terrorism.
Official sources indicated that forensic teams are processing the site, with DNA profiling underway to confirm the terrorist’s identity against Interpol databases and national dossiers. Further investigations aim to dismantle any associated overground worker (OGW) networks and sleeper cells in the region.
Senior security officials commended the joint team’s tactical acumen and resolve, stating the operation exemplifies the “whole of government” approach to eradicating terrorism. Kathua SSP and Army sector commander are expected to brief media shortly with detailed updates. The success reaffirms security forces’ dominance in the region, sending a strong message to handlers across the border.
