A significant encounter broke out on Sunday, January 18, 2026, between security forces and terrorists in the Chatroo area of Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir. Multiple credible news sources confirm that the gunfight began during a joint cordon and search operation in the Sonnar village near Mandral-Singhoora, initiated following specific intelligence inputs regarding the presence of terrorists in the area. Initial reports suggest that at least two to three terrorists, believed to be affiliated with the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) outfit, are trapped within the cordoned-off zone. The terrorists opened fire on the search party and reportedly lobbed grenades, prompting retaliatory action from the security personnel. In the exchange of fire, three soldiers suffered splinter injuries and have been evacuated to a hospital. The operation, named 'Operation Trashi-I' by the Army's Jammu-based White Knight Corps, involves the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police. Reinforcements have been rushed to the site, and additional troops have been inducted to reinforce the cordon and prevent the terrorists from escaping. This encounter comes amidst heightened security concerns and increased surveillance across the Jammu region, especially ahead of Republic Day, with intelligence reports indicating movement of Pakistani terrorists in the hilly forested areas. Operations are ongoing to track down and neutralize the terrorists.