Massive search operation underway in Handwara

HANDWARA — Government forces have launched a massive search operation in Rajwar, Bhavan Watsar forest area of north Kashmir’s Handwara town.

Sources said that the search operation was started after the forces received inputs about the movement of militants in the forest area. Soldiers from 21 Rashtriya Rifles and Special Operation Group of J&K Police have cordoned off a massive chunk of the forest.

An official confirmed that a search operation has been launched in Rajwar forest area. He said the forest is very dense but the operation is underway to track down militants.

In past as well, the Rajwar forest area witnessed many encounters between militants and government forces. In the first week of April, five militants and five soldiers were killed in Keran gunfight in the same district.