Search operation launched in Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch
Security forces have launched a large-scale search operation in the Poonch district of Jammu and Kashmir following reports of suspected terrorist movement. Separately, a bomb disposal squad safely removed an old mortar shell found in a residential area in Kathua.
Why it matters
These events underscore the persistent security challenges and the presence of unexploded ordnance in the border regions of Jammu and Kashmir.
Security forces on Tuesday (August 4, 2026) launched a massive search operation after receiving inputs about the suspected movement of terrorists at two locations in the remote Surankote area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, officials said.
Acting on the information, personnel of the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, assisted by troops of the Rashtriya Rifles, launched a cordon-and-search operation in the Dhara Sangla, Gujjar Naar and Kherowali Dhok areas, along with adjoining forested villages, the officials said.
They said the operation was initiated following reports suggesting the movement of two separate groups of suspected terrorists in the densely forested region.
No contact had been established with the suspected terrorists so far, the officials said, adding the operation was continuing, with security personnel carrying out systematic searches to trace the suspects.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in