J&K: Search Operation Underway in Poonch After Suspected Terrorist Movement

Jammu, Aug 4: Security forces on Tuesday launched a massive search operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district following inputs about the suspected movement of terrorists at two locations in the remote Surankote area, officials said.

Personnel of the Special Operations Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir Police, assisted by Rashtriya Rifles troops, launched a cordon-and-search operation in Dhara Sangla, Gujjar Naar and Kherowali Dhok areas and adjoining forested villages, they said.

The operation was launched after reports indicated the movement of two separate groups of suspected terrorists in the densely forested region. Security personnel are conducting systematic searches to trace the suspects.

No contact had been established with the suspected terrorists so far, officials said, adding that the operation was continuing.

Meanwhile, an old and rusted mortar shell was recovered from the courtyard of a house near the International Border in Kathua district’s Hiranagar sector on Tuesday morning.

The unexploded shell was spotted by labourers carrying out excavation work at the residence of Subash Chander in Kattal-Brahmana village, following which authorities were alerted.

A police team accompanied by the Bomb Disposal Squad (BDS) reached the spot, secured the area and safely removed the mortar shell for disposal, officials said. (Agencies)