Jaish-e-Mohammad Commander Saifullah Killed in Kishtwar Encounter

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir – A joint operation by the Indian Army and Jammu & Kashmir Police has resulted in the death of two militants in the Chatroo forest area of Kishtwar district. Authorities suspect that Saifullah, a top commander of the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) terror group, was among those killed during the encounter on Sunday [1].

Details of the Operation

The operation, codenamed “Trashi-I,” was launched based on credible intelligence inputs from the Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Intelligence Bureau and other intelligence sources. The security forces, comprising the Army, police, and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), engaged the militants in challenging terrain at approximately 11 am [2].

According to a defense spokesman, troops from CIF Delta, working closely with J&K Police and CRPF, displayed “tactical precision, seamless synergy and resolute aggression” during the encounter. Two AK-47 rifles and other war-like stores were recovered from the site [2].

Who Was Saifullah?

Saifullah was identified as one of the most wanted militants in Jammu and Kashmir. He had been active in the region for several years and was allegedly responsible for multiple attacks on security forces in the Doda–Kishtwar belt [3]. He had previously evaded capture in numerous operations [3]. Reports indicate he infiltrated into India a few years ago [3].

Ongoing Security Measures

Security forces are continuing a massive search operation in Chatroo and surrounding forest areas of Kishtwar, following a previous encounter on January 18 where a para commando was killed and others injured.

The operation highlights the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in the region.