Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir | 13 January 2026

An encounter broke out on Tuesday between security forces and terrorists in the Billawar area of Kathua district after militants opened fire during an ongoing anti-terror operation. The exchange of fire began when a patrolling team, acting on specific intelligence inputs, intensified search efforts in the region.

Officials said the operation was launched following information about the presence of two to three terrorists hiding in the area. As security personnel moved in to establish a cordon, terrorists belonging to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed group allegedly opened fire, triggering a gun battle.

The area has been sealed off and additional forces have been rushed to strengthen the cordon. Security agencies are maintaining heightened vigilance to prevent the militants from escaping, while civilians have been advised to stay indoors as a precautionary measure.

This latest encounter comes days after similar search operations were conducted in Kathua district to trace terrorist movement. Authorities said the situation is being closely monitored and further details will be shared as the operation progresses.

 Kathua on Alert as Fresh Encounter Breaks Out During Anti-Terror Operation

A tense gunfight erupted in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district after terrorists opened fire on security forces during a routine search operation in the Billawar area. The sudden exchange of fire turned the operation into an active encounter, prompting authorities to tighten security in the region.

Officials said the operation was launched based on intelligence inputs indicating the presence of two to three terrorists in the area. As security personnel moved in to cordon off the location, militants linked to the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed allegedly initiated firing, forcing the forces to retaliate.

Following the encounter, additional security teams were rushed to the spot to reinforce the operation. The entire area has been sealed, and efforts are underway to prevent the terrorists from fleeing. Residents have been advised to remain indoors as a precaution.

This incident comes amid intensified counter-terror operations in Kathua over the past few days. Security agencies said the search is ongoing and the situation remains under close watch.