Jammu and Kashmir: Top JeM commander among two terrorists killed in encounter in Udhampur

In a joint operation of Jammu and Kashmir Police, Indian Army and CRPF, two terrorists belonging to Pakistan's Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) outfit were neutralised in Bansantgarh area of Udhampur on Wednesday.

Earlier in the day, the forces had conducted cordon and search operation in a remote forest area of Udhampur.

The terrorists were caught inside a cave even as several powerful blasts were heard when the forces stormed the cave around noon.

One of the terrorists killed in the operation was identified as Rubani alias Avu Mavia, a top, self-styled commander of JeM, who was active in the area for the last several years.

The Army said that operation was named "KIya", adding that the area still remains under surveillance.

"Based on specific intelligence input provided by police, troops of Counter-Intelligence Force Delta, White Knight Corps planned and executed a focused joint counter-terror operation in the general area of Jophar Forest, Basantgarh in coordination with police and CRPF reinforcing the cordon, ensuring effective area domination to prevent escape of terrorists.

"Contact with terrorists was established yesterday and since then, terrorists were prevented from breaking contact. Following a calibrated and coordinated response, two terrorists have been successfully neutralised. The operation highlighted seamless inter-agency coordination, tactical precision and high standards of professionalism," the Army's White Knight Corps said in a post on X.

According to a PTI report, one body was found lying on themouth of a natural cave, another was found lying deep inside it.

A large quantity of arms and ammunition, including an M4 carbine and an AK assault rifle, were recovered from the slain terrorists.

This was the second encounter in Udhampur since December 15 when a policeman was killed in an encounter at Soan village. However, the terrorists had managed to escape taking advantage of thick foliage and darkness.