Jammu: Security forces intensified their search operation on Monday in Bhagna forest, Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, after terrorists escaped from a natural cave hideout, officials said.
The operation began early Sunday based on intelligence about the presence of two high-profile Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists, Riyaz Ahmad and Mudassar Hazari, who have been active in the district for eight years and carry a reward of Rs 10 lakh each.
Intermittent gunfire and loud explosions echoed through the Dool forest area, around 25 km from Kishtwar town, overnight as security forces focused on the natural cave where the terrorists were believed to have taken refuge following an exchange of fire on Sunday.
On Monday, forces thoroughly searched the deep cave but found no sign of the militants, who are thought to have fled deeper into the forest. A massive search operation is ongoing to locate and neutralize them.
Officials described the cave as extensive and reportedly used by terrorists as a hideout in the past. Well-fortified positions were established inside, with wood and other daily essentials discovered.
The terrorists fired on search parties around 6:30 AM Sunday before retreating under heavy retaliation. Two more intermittent firefights were reported throughout the day.
The cordon and search were bolstered by additional reinforcements, including army para commandos, police, and CRPF, with drones deployed to prevent any escape.
The last firing from the terrorists was near the cave on a cliff Sunday evening, with security forces suspecting they remain sheltered inside.
