Kashmir: Militant killed, 2 jawans injured in Shopian encounter, op continues

The operation was going on when the reports last came in, they said.

Sources said a joint CASO was launched by Rashtriya Rifles (RR), Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF on Friday afternoon following a tip-off about the presence of militants in an orchard.

However, when the security forces were moving towards a particular area after sealing all exit points, militants hiding there opened fire with automatic weapons.

Security forces also retaliated ensuing in an encounter. Two security force personnel were injured in the initial exchange of fire who were shifted to 92 Base hospital.

Later, the militants entered a nearby house, sources said, adding that the operation was stopped due to darkness though security forces remained deployed to prevent any attempt to escape.

Residents in the nearby areas were also rescued to safer places, sources said adding militants were repeatedly asked to surrender.

With the first light this morning, operation was again launched by the security forces who came under fire when they were approaching the particular house where militants were held up. The house was damaged after security forces used explosives, they said adding militants have now entered another nearby structure.

Meanwhile, additional security forces and police personnel have been deployed in the adjacent areas to foil any attempt to disrupt the peace.