Massive search operation launched in J&K’s Udhampur after suspected terrorists seek food at Bakerwal home
PTC Web Desk: A major multi-agency search operation has been launched in the upper reaches of Basantgarh in Jammu and Kashmir’s Udhampur district after a Bakerwal family reported that three unidentified men, suspected to be terrorists, approached their home late at night and asked for food.
The incident occurred in the remote Chingla-Balotha village, located in the higher terrain of Basantgarh. According to officials, the house owner panicked, fled the premises and immediately informed the police. Security forces swiftly reached the area, triggering a large-scale cordon-and-search operation across dense forests and steep terrain.
“Inputs indicate the presence of two to three suspected terrorists in the forest belt. No direct contact has been made yet,” officials said on Saturday. The search had initially been initiated on Friday after reports of suspicious movement, but intensified after the Bakerwal family confirmed a face-to-face encounter with the suspects.
Basantgarh falls along a known infiltration corridor frequently used by Pakistan-based terrorists who enter from the Kathua sector and move across difficult mountainous terrain toward Doda and Kishtwar, eventually attempting to reach the Kashmir Valley.
The region has a history of terror-related activity, including encounters and hideout busts, making it one of the most sensitive forest belts in Jammu division.
Security teams, including the Army, CRPF, and J&K Police, have expanded the search radius to surrounding villages and forest zones. Sniffer dogs, drones and specialised tracking units are scanning the area for movement trails and footprints. Residents have been advised to stay indoors and report any unusual activity.
Although no exchange of fire has taken place so far, security forces remain on high alert, believing the suspects may still be hiding in the thick forest cover. Officials said the operation will continue until the area is thoroughly sanitised and the suspects are located.
- PTC NEWS
