JAMMU & KASHMIR: Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have stepped up operations ahead of the January 26 Republic Day following concerns of potential militant threats. During these intensified checks, a significant anti-terror success was reported in Kathua district, where a hardened Jaish-e-Mohammed militant was neutralized. The joint operation was carried out by the Indian Army and CRPF in the Parhater area of Billawar.
Acting on intelligence about militants hiding in a remote village house, the forces conducted a cordon-and-search operation, which led to a gunfight. Jaish commander Usman, also known as Abu Mavia, was killed in the encounter, officials confirmed. A large cache of weapons, including advanced M4 rifles and explosive materials, was recovered from the site.
The Army also stated that a foreign terrorist was eliminated during the operation and that security efforts in the area are continuing. Usman, a Pakistani national who illegally crossed into Kashmir two years ago, had been active in the Udhampur-Kathua region and had become one of Jaish’s most-wanted operatives. Earlier encounters in forested areas on January 7 and 13 had allowed him to evade capture.
During Sunday’s encounter, a paratrooper sustained critical injuries, and seven soldiers were wounded. Operation Trashi-I, launched to secure the region ahead of Republic Day, continues under coordinated efforts of the Army and CRPF, with security forces maintaining high alert in the area.