A Pakistani terrorist affiliated with the banned Jaish e Mohammad (JeM) group was killed on Friday during a joint operation by the Indian Army, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and Jammu and Kashmir Police in the Billawar area of Kathua district. Security forces continue to conduct search operations in the region following the encounter.
The slain militant has been identified as Usman, also known as “Abu Maviya,” a JeM commander and one of the most wanted terrorists operating in the Udhampur Kathua belt. Officials said he had infiltrated into Indian territory from across the border and had managed to evade capture in several previous clashes with security personnel.
The operation was launched after specific intelligence inputs indicated the presence of the terrorist in the Parhetar and Billawar forests. Security forces cordoned off the area, made contact with the suspect and, after a brief exchange of fire, neutralised him. A significant cache of arms and ammunition, including an M4 automatic rifle, was recovered from the site following the encounter.
Inspector General of Police, Jammu range Bhim Sen Tuti, said the elimination of the JeM militant was a notable success in counter‑terrorism efforts in the region. He added that continued search operations aim to track down any remaining suspects and prevent further infiltration attempts.
The encounter comes amid intensified security operations across the Jammu region ahead of Republic Day celebrations, with authorities vigilant against attempts by militant groups to carry out attacks. Previous search efforts in neighbouring forest belts have led to multiple engagements between terrorists and security forces in recent days.
Local security officials have reiterated that while one militant has been neutralised, the wider operation involving troops and police units is ongoing to ensure the elimination of any additional threats in the area.
