In a significant move to bolster security preparedness, the Kathua district police in Jammu and Kashmir conducted comprehensive mock drills designed to counter potential suicide attacks by terrorists. The exercise, held on 27 December 2025, aimed to test and refine the response protocols of security forces in the region.
Scope and Supervision of the Security Exercise
The large-scale drill was executed under the direct and overall supervision of Kathua Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Mohita Sharma. A police spokesperson confirmed that the simulation was designed to replicate real-life scenarios of terrorist-initiated suicide attacks, ensuring that personnel are trained to respond with maximum efficiency and coordination.
Key Locations for the Drill
The mock exercises were not confined to a single location but were spread across critical security installations in the district. The primary venues included the Rajbagh and Hiranagar police stations. Furthermore, recognizing the sensitive nature of the international border, the drills were also extended to seven different border police posts situated along this frontier.
This multi-location approach ensured that both urban security setups and remote border outposts were put through rigorous testing. The choice of locations underscores a strategic focus on hardening defenses at potential entry points and key administrative nodes within Kathua.
Objectives and Implications for Regional Security
The primary objective of this initiative was to enhance the operational readiness and tactical response of the police force. By simulating a high-stakes suicide attack scenario, the drill assessed several critical aspects:
- Immediate response and containment procedures.
- Inter-agency coordination and communication.
- Evacuation and crisis management protocols.
- Post-incident investigation and forensic readiness.
Such proactive measures are crucial for Jammu and Kashmir, a region where security forces remain on high alert against terrorist activities. Conducting these drills in border areas sends a strong message of vigilance and preparedness, aiming to deter adversarial elements and reassure the local population.
The exercise, as reported by the police spokesperson, is part of ongoing efforts to regularly update and practice standard operating procedures (SOPs). Under the leadership of SSP Mohita Sharma, the Kathua police force continues to prioritize advanced training to counter evolving security threats, ensuring the safety and security of the district's residents and infrastructure.
