Drones, Helicopters Deployed As Hunt For 3 Pakistani Terrorists Enters 56th Hour In Rajouri

Security forces are continuing a massive anti-terror operation in the dense Gambhir Mughlan forests of Rajouri, where three suspected Pakistani terrorists are believed to be trapped inside a heavily forested area near the border.

The multi-agency operation, involving the Army’s Romeo Force, CRPF, Special Operations Group and Jammu and Kashmir Police, has now stretched beyond 56 hours, with drones, helicopters and surveillance equipment deployed to track the movement of the terrorists and block possible escape routes.

The encounter began on May 24 after intelligence inputs led security personnel to launch a joint search mission in the Dorimal-Gambhir Mughlan belt. Troops later established contact with the terrorists, triggering a firefight before the group disappeared deeper into the forest cover.

The Army’s White Knight Corps said the operation, named Op Sheruwali, remains active and reinforcements have been rushed to strengthen the cordon around the area.

Officials said forces carried out targeted firing at suspected hideouts inside the forest in an attempt to force the terrorists to reveal their location, but there was no response. Search teams continued operations through the night while maintaining a tight cordon to prevent any breakout attempt.

Sources said the three suspected terrorists are believed to be Pakistani nationals. Security forces are proceeding carefully due to the difficult terrain and thick foliage, with officials saying troops are gradually advancing deeper into the forest to neutralise the group.

Authorities said the same group had previously managed to escape security operations, but this time surveillance systems and aerial monitoring have significantly reduced their chances of slipping out.