Security forces on high alert in Samba, Kathua

Jammu, May 12 (UNI) High alert has been sounded in Samba and Kathua districts along the international border (IB) in Jammu and Kashmir following the inputs regarding the presence of about seven ''heavily armed'' militants in the adjoining areas.

''Alert has been sounded in Kathua and Samba after interception about the presence of seven militants in the bordering area,'' well-placed official source told UNI.

''A group of 10 heavily armed militants is suspected to have entered into the Indian side from the IB.

''As two of them were killed in a day-long shootout yesterday and their third accomplice was eliminated today, there are inputs regarding the presence of about seven others in the adjoining area,'' the source said.

The fidayeens' bid to get closer to the army residential area indicated that the army cantonment was the target of militants, an official spokesman said.

The fidayeen attack at Samba and recovery of huge ammunition and explosives in the nearby forests have raised questions on the BSF's claim to have foiled a ''major infiltration bid'' from the International Border nearby on Thursday night.

According to the BSF, its troops had completely averted the attempt by a group of 10-15 heavily armed militants to infiltrate from Pakistan into the Indian side from 6-Romeo post in Samba sector.

It was also said that the militants had tried to temper the barbed border fence but could not succeed.

However, other security agencies, suspecting infiltration into the Indian side, had started search operation at various places in the Samba district.

Surveillance has been beefed up in Samba and Kathua districts as joint teams of security forces were carrying out search operation.

A total of three Pakistan-sponsored militants, two army jawans, a photojournalist, a local political figure and two women were killed since last morning.

UNI VJ SY NS1742