The Jammu and Kashmir Police have arrested nine over-ground workers in Kathua on Monday They have been accused of aiding foreign terrorists in entering and conducting operations within India, according to officials.

These individuals were allegedly involved in supporting terrorist activities in the upper regions of Doda, Udhampur, and Kathua along the India-Pakistan border, as stated by the police. The security forces have noted a recent increase in terrorist activities, particularly in the Jammu region, with the influx of militants believed to have crossed over from Pakistan.

The operation to bust the module was initiated based on intelligence provided by central agencies, following the elimination of three foreign militants in July in the Gandoh area of Doda district, according to a PTI report.

Police have identified Mohammad Lateef as the ringleader of the module, describing him as a guide who organized logistical support for the militants traveling through the region.

The terror module not only provided initial shelter and logistical aid but also directed the militants to the mountainous and forested areas of the Udhampur-Kathua-Doda districts, particularly around the strategically important Kailash mountain tri-junction.

During interrogations, the arrested individuals admitted to helping the terrorists, who were later killed in the Gandoh encounter, to evade detection by security forces.

The police spokesperson further noted that more than 50 local residents, who live in temporary summer huts for grazing, were questioned regarding their interactions with the foreign terrorists. Some of these residents failed to report their contact with the militants, while others even accepted money in exchange for assistance.