The tranquil upper reaches of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district were shattered by gunfire on Sunday, January 18, 2026. Under the banner of Operation Trashi-I , the Indian Army’s White Knight Corps and the J&K Police launched a deliberate search operation following intelligence reports of terrorist movement. What began as a routine sweep quickly escalated into a prolonged gunbattle in the dense, snow-dusted forests of the Chatroo belt. As security forces tightened their cordon around the Sonnar village area, they encountered a group of 2 to 3 foreign terrorists , suspected to be affiliated with the Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) . In a desperate attempt to break the perimeter, the terrorists opened indiscriminate fire and lobbed several grenades, resulting in injuries to eight Army personnel . As of Monday morning, January 19, the operation remains active, with advanced surveillance and reinforcements moving in to neutralize the holed-up insurgents. 1. The Ambush: Chaos in the Forest The encounter broke out around noon in a remote, forested area characterized by steep slopes and thick vegetation. The terrorists, taking advantage of the high ground, used the element of surprise. The Tactics: Grenades were hurled into the search parties below, causing splinter injuries to the soldiers. The Evacuation: All eight injured personnel were successfully evacuated to a nearby military hospital. Most injuries are reported to be stable, primarily consisting of shrapnel wounds. Swift Action: Injured personnel were evacuated via air and road from the challenging terrain of the Chatroo belt. 2. Operation Trashi-I: The Forces Involved Named by the White Knight Corps , Operation Trashi-I is a multi-agency effort. The Indian Army is working in close coordination with the CRPF and the Jammu and Kashmir Police . Reinforcements: Additional columns have been moved in from neighboring areas to plug potential escape routes. Technology: The Army is utilizing thermal drones and high-definition surveillance to track thermal signatures in the dense foliage. 3. The Threat: Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) Intelligence sources believe the group involved consists of "foreign terrorists"—hardened fighters who likely infiltrated recently. This is the third major encounter in the Jammu region this year, following gunfights in Kathua earlier this month. 4. Security Grid: Republic Day Alert The timing of the attack is critical. With Republic Day 2026 just a week away, security across the Jammu region is on the highest alert level. Heightened Vigilance: Intelligence suggests desperate attempts by across-the-border handlers to push more terrorists into the Chenab Valley to disrupt upcoming celebrations. Winter Strategy: Security forces have intensified winter operations, as heavy snowfall in higher reaches forces terrorists to move toward lower, more accessible forest belts. Intensified Hunt: Drones and sniffer dogs have been deployed to track the terrorists through the thick vegetation of the Sonnar forest. Conclusion: A Nation Holds Its Breath Operation Trashi-I serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges faced by our forces in the mountainous terrain of J&K. While eight of our bravehearts recover in the hospital, the mission to flush out the remnants of the JeM cell continues. The resolve of the White Knight Corps remains unshaken as they navigate the difficult terrain to ensure the safety of the region. Our prayers are with the injured soldiers for a speedy recovery. Disclaimer: This report is based on official military statements and news reports as of January 19, 2026. Operation details are dynamic and subject to change as the situation evolves on the ground.