Maggi, Basmati at 12,000 Feet? Probe Launched Into Terrorist Supply Network in Kishtwar

Security forces have launched a probe into a suspected terrorist supply network after Maggi, basmati rice and other supplies were found at a hideout 12,000 feet high in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district during an ongoing anti-terror operation.

Kishtwar: Security forces have intensified their investigation into a suspected support network that supplied food and essential materials to terrorists hiding deep inside the Singhpora forest of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar district, where an anti-terror operation has entered its third consecutive day.

During the ongoing search operation, forces discovered a well-stocked hideout located at an altitude of nearly 12,000 feet. The bunker-like shelter contained large quantities of ration items, including packaged food such as Maggi noodles and basmati rice, along with blankets, cooking utensils, medicines, gas cylinders, drums, and other daily-use essentials. Officials believe the recovered supplies were sufficient to sustain four to five individuals for several months, indicating long-term planning by the terrorists.

The presence of such a massive stockpile in extremely difficult terrain has raised serious questions about local assistance. Multiple individuals have been detained for questioning as investigators attempt to trace who transported the material to such a remote and elevated location, nearly seven kilometres away from the nearest habitation.

The operation began on Sunday in the Chhatru area after security forces made contact with terrorists believed to be affiliated with the Pakistan-backed Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). During the exchange of fire, a para commando laid down his life, while seven other soldiers sustained injuries. The injured personnel are undergoing treatment at a military hospital, and those with minor injuries have rejoined operational duties.

Senior officials, including the Inspector General of Police (Jammu Zone) and the Inspector General of CRPF (Jammu), visited the encounter site and are currently stationed in the region to oversee the operation. The Army’s White Knight Corps has confirmed that Operation Trashi-1 is ongoing, with the search perimeter further expanded in view of Republic Day security considerations.

Joint teams of the Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, and central armed forces are conducting coordinated search efforts using drones, helicopters, and sniffer dogs. The challenging terrain—marked by dense forests and steep slopes—has made the operation complex, but forces remain determined to eliminate the remaining threat.

Officials estimate that three to four terrorists are still hiding in the forested area. The focus of the investigation has now widened beyond neutralising the militants to dismantling the logistical chain that enabled them to survive in such harsh conditions.