Encounter Erupts in Kathua as Security Forces Corner Terrorists in Billawar Forest

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Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir are locked in a heavy gunfight with terrorists in the Kathua district today, on 13 January 2026. This encounter began in the Billawar area and has now moved into the thick Najote forest.

A top Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) commander is believed to be trapped inside the search zone. Elite teams from the Army, CRPF, and local police have sealed off the woods. They are using high-tech drones and thermal cameras to track the group through the rocky, uphill terrain.

The Billawar Standoff: A Week of Tactical Engagement

The operation started a week ago in a small village called Kahog. Intelligence experts found out that three armed men were hiding in the area. During the first fight, one security officer was injured, but the terrorists slipped away as it was night and they were surrounded by thick bushes. They hid in natural caves and deep ravines near the Kamadh Nullah.

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Currently, the police have pushed them into a much smaller area in the Najote forest. This forest is about 10 kilometers away from where the fight first started. Reports say the trapped leader is a man known as Commander Mavi. He is a high-level target for the Indian government. Catching or neutralizing him would stop many planned attacks in the Jammu region. For the time being, the troops are moving very slowly and carefully to avoid being ambushed in the woods.

Why the Kathua Encounter Matters for 2026

This fight shows a major change in how terror groups are operating this year. For a long time, the Jammu region was very peaceful compared to the Kashmir Valley. Now, groups are trying to start trouble in Kathua to distract the army. Over the last two years, violence in this specific area has increased, causing fear among local families and small shop owners.

In the long run, the Kathua encounter will change how the border is guarded. If these groups keep hiding in the mountains, the government will have to spend more on mountain-trained troops. Local farmers are already struggling as they cannot go to their fields during the search. This could hurt the local economy for many months. Additionally, the safety of the main highway nearby is at risk. Security forces must win this battle to make sure the Jammu-Pathankot road stays safe for travelers and trucks.

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