Security forces shift focus to dismantling terror ecosystem in Jammu after 326-day Kishtwar operation

Buoyed by the successful elimination of seven dreaded terrorists during a 326-day-long operation in the mountainous and remote Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, security forces have now shifted their focus to dismantling the terror ecosystem that sustained them for months.

Despite sustained efforts by the forces during the 11-month-long operation, the Pakistani terrorists active in this rugged belt managed to survive for a prolonged period due to an entrenched support system.

Sources told The International Business Times that the focus has now shifted to identifying local over-ground workers (OGWs) and facilitators who allegedly provided shelter, supplies, and logistical backing to the Jaish-e-Mohammed network.

The prolonged counter-terror operation, which culminated in the neutralisation of the so-called “Israel group” of Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorists, has exposed what officials describe as a deeply entrenched sleeper and support network in parts of the Jammu region. Investigators have prepared a comprehensive action plan to tighten the noose around OGWs across the province, on the lines of similar crackdowns carried out in Kashmir.

Officials said the strength of the local terror support structure became evident during Operation Trashi. On January 19, security forces busted a hideout at an altitude of nearly 12,000 feet in Singhpora. The recovery of gas cylinders, pulses, rice, eggs, and other daily-use household items from the site indicated sustained logistical backing. Agencies believe such supplies could not have been transported to such inhospitable terrain without active local assistance.

Terror sympathisers serving in a hydroelectric project in Kishtwar

The investigation has also revealed troubling findings during police verification of 29 workers engaged at the Ratle Hydroelectric Project on the Chenab River in Kishtwar. According to officials, five workers were found to have links with active or surrendered terrorists. In several cases, close family members—including fathers and brothers—were allegedly involved in militancy or functioning as OGWs. Additionally, criminal cases had been registered against 24 of the workers at different police stations in the district.

IGP reviews security scenario in Doda

Earlier, Inspector General of Police (IGP), Jammu Zone, Bhim Sen Tuti, along with DIG DKR Range Shridhar Patil, chaired a comprehensive Crime Review and Security Assessment meeting at the District Police Office (DPO) Doda to evaluate the prevailing law and order situation, crime trends, and the overall security grid in the district.

The meeting was attended by SSP Doda Sandeep Mehta, along with SDPOs, SHOs, and other supervisory officers. The SSP delivered a detailed PowerPoint presentation outlining the district’s crime profile and security scenario.

Reviewing the security framework, the IGP assessed the functioning of the security grid and emphasised strengthening inter-agency coordination, intensifying night patrolling, and ensuring effective area domination in vulnerable and sensitive locations. He underscored the need for intelligence-driven operations and a robust counter-terrorism posture to prevent any disruption to peace and public order.

The IGP further directed strict enforcement measures against drug trafficking, bovine smuggling, and organised crime, reiterating a zero-tolerance approach. Emphasis was also laid on public outreach initiatives, community policing, and fostering strong police-public relations to enhance trust and cooperation.

Property of Pak-based handler seized in Kathua

Meanwhile, in a parallel crackdown, Kathua Police have moved to choke terror financing channels. Police seized 7.5 marlas of immovable property belonging to Swardin alias Swaru, a Pakistani handler accused of orchestrating cross-border terrorist activities. A resident of Bhatouri in Tehsil Lohai Malhar, Swardin had reportedly fled to Pakistan and continued to direct anti-national activities from across the border. A case has been registered against him at Billawar Police Station, and he has been declared a proclaimed offender by the court.

Despite repeated attempts to secure his arrest, the accused evaded capture, prompting the court to order the confiscation of his property. The seizure operation was carried out under the supervision of Inspector Zaheer Mushtaq, SHO of Billawar Police Station.

Security officials said the action forms part of a broader strategy to dismantle the financial and logistical backbone of terror outfits operating in the region. Authorities have made it clear that operations against terrorist sympathisers, facilitators, and funding networks will continue with intensified focus across Jammu province.