Kathua On High Alert: Anti-Terror Operation 'Saniyal' Intensifies With NSG Deployment After Kidnapping Bid

Kathua: A massive encounter erupted in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua during anti-terror operations by the security forces in the Hiranagar area on Sunday. The operation was triggered after locals reported sighting armed suspects in the area, leading to an exchange of firing between the suspected terrorists and security forces. As the gun battle escalated, terrorists reportedly took a local resident, identified as Ganesh, hostage, and attempted to take his wife hostage as well. However, in a daring escape, the wife managed to flee, with the terrorists hot on her heels. 

According to the police officials, fortunately, her husband was released after a tense 10-minute standoff during the terrorists' attempt to take the family hostage. However, a minor girl was injured in the crossfire, suffering a splinter injury, stated the police officials. 

Following the incident, Director General (DG of J&K Police), Nalin Prabhat, met with the wife of Ganesh, who was taken hostage, to gather more information about the incident. DGP Prabhat, a seasoned Indian Police Service (IPS) officer, has a proven track record of handling sensitive operations and has been instrumental in maintaining law and order in the region.

Meanwhile, the NSG has also been called in Jammu and Kashmir's Kathua district, to join the ongoing anti-terror operation 'Saniyal'.

Terror Movement Led To Search Operation, Encounter

The encounter began when locals reported sighting armed suspects in the Hiranagar area. The security forces quickly swung into action, cordoning off the area and launching a search operation. As the terrorists were cornered, they took Ganesh hostage, sparking a tense standoff.

The wife of Ganesh, who wishes to remain anonymous, recounted the harrowing experience, saying, "There were five terrorists, and they were armed to the teeth. They took my husband hostage and tried to take me as well, but I managed to escape." She added, "The terrorists were shouting and firing indiscriminately, and I was terrified for my life."

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Injured Girl Hospitalised

The minor girl, who was injured in the crossfire, is currently receiving medical treatment. Her condition is reported to be stable. The security forces have arrested several suspects in connection with the encounter, and an investigation is underway to determine the identities and affiliations of the terrorists.

The security forces have been put on high alert in the aftermath of the encounter, with additional troops deployed in the region to prevent any further terrorist activity. The J&K Police have also launched a massive manhunt to track down any remaining terrorists.

NSG Joins Forces Kathua Anti-Terror Operation

Meanwhile, in a major development, the National Security Guard (NSG) has reached Hiranagar in Kathua district, to join the ongoing anti-terror operation 'Saniyal'. The NSG teams arrived in Hiranagar earlier on Sunday and are set to commence operations alongside the Special Forces of the Indian Army and the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the J&K Police at dawn on Monday. 

The joint operation aimed to neutralise terrorist threats in the region and ensure the safety of civilians. The NSG, also known as the "Black Cats," is an elite counter-terrorism unit that operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Its expertise in handling high-risk operations will undoubtedly strengthen the efforts of the Indian Army and J&K Police in combating terrorism in the region.

As the operation progresses, residents in the area have been advised to remain vigilant and cooperate with the security forces.