In a high-stakes counter-terror operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kathua district, security forces eliminated a top Jaish-e-Mohammed commander after he took civilians hostage inside a house in Parhetar village.
The slain terrorist has been identified as Usman, a Pakistani national and a senior commander of the JeM terror group. Officials said he had been active in the region since 2024 and was involved in multiple terror incidents.
The operation, which continued for over a week, was conducted jointly by Jammu and Kashmir Police, the Indian Army, and the CRPF, with the safety of civilians treated as the top priority throughout.
Kathua Operation Triggered by Specific Intelligence
According to Kathua SSP Mohita Sharma, the final phase of the operation began after specific intelligence inputs confirmed Usman’s presence in Parhetar village.
Mohita Sharma said police received information around 1 pm that the JeM commander had entered a house and had taken a local family hostage. Immediately, the area was cordoned off with support from the CRPF and Army.
Soon after, civilians were safely evacuated, preventing a potential tragedy.
Hostages Evacuated as Terrorist Opened Fire
As the security cordon tightened, Usman opened fire from inside the house, leading to a fierce gunbattle.
Despite the danger, the police and supporting forces managed to breach the terrorist’s advantage, overpower him, and neutralise him. An M4 assault rifle was recovered from the site.
The hostage rescue and elimination of the terrorist marked the culmination of sustained tracking efforts and close ground coordination by forces in the area.
Jaish-e-Mohammed Hideouts Destroyed in Week-Long Search
Officials stated that Usman used multiple shelters to stay hidden. Over the course of the week-long operation, forces destroyed three hideouts, including natural caves and a manmade shelter, which were used for movement and concealment.
Authorities confirmed that six terror cases were registered against him, including attacks on civilians and security forces.
A Clear Message Against Cross-Border Terror
The Kathua operation once again underlines the continuing terror threat originating from Pakistan-backed networks, and the need for relentless vigilance in Jammu and Kashmir.
However, it also demonstrates a critical reality: India’s security grid does not blink. When terrorists attempt to hide behind civilians or take hostages, the response is still decisive, precise, and coordinated.
With Usman neutralised and his hideouts dismantled, the operation marks a significant setback for JeM’s activities in the region.
