An encounter broke out between security forces and terrorists in the Chhatru area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district during the early hours of Wednesday, officials said. The operation began after the Jammu and Kashmir Police, supported by the Indian Army, launched a joint search based on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the region.

According to officials, the search operation was initiated in the early morning, and as the troops advanced through the area, they came under fire from the hiding terrorists. The security forces retaliated, resulting in an intense exchange of gunfire. The encounter site was immediately cordoned off to prevent any escape routes for the militants, and reinforcements were rushed to the spot to strengthen the ongoing operation.

In an update shared on the social media platform X, the White Knight Corps confirmed the encounter, stating, “Contact with Terrorists | Op Chhatru: In an intelligence-based joint operation with @jk_police early this morning, alert troops of #WhiteKnightCorps have established contact with terrorists in the general area of Chhatru. Fire has been exchanged, and the operation is ongoing.”

As of the latest reports, the gunfight remains active, with security personnel maintaining a strong presence in the area. Authorities have heightened surveillance and imposed restrictions to ensure civilian safety. Additional details regarding casualties or recoveries are still awaited as the operation continues to neutralize the threat.