Army, CRPF, J&K Police Launch Intensified Search for Suspected Terrorists in Rajouri

Security forces on Sunday intensified search operations in the Dorimal-Gambhir Moghla belt of Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir, deploying additional troops and strengthening the cordon to track down suspected terrorists believed to be hiding in the forested region after a brief encounter a day earlier.

Officials said the operation was launched jointly by the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and CRPF following specific intelligence inputs regarding suspicious movement in the area. Preliminary reports suggest the presence of two to three terrorists .

The dense forests, steep ridges, and narrow mountain routes of Rajouri and neighbouring Poonch have long posed operational challenges for security forces, often allowing infiltrators to evade detection. In recent years, the twin border districts have witnessed several deadly ambushes and targeted attacks on security personnel and civilians, prompting intensified counter-terror operations.

Security agencies suspect that small groups of heavily armed terrorists continue to use traditional infiltration routes from across the Line of Control before taking shelter in remote forest pockets. Officials said surveillance drones, night-vision equipment, and real-time intelligence coordination are being increasingly used to monitor movement and support ground troops during such operations.

A parallel search operation was also launched in the Gudha Brahmana area of Akhnoor in Jammu district after a local woman reported seeing masked individuals near her residence. Villages in the area were cordoned off as forces carried out searches.

Security experts say the renewed focus on Rajouri and adjoining sectors reflects a broader counter-terror strategy aimed at dismantling sleeper networks, restricting infiltration corridors, and maintaining constant pressure on militant groups attempting to revive activities in the Jammu region.