Kulgam Encounter Enters Third Day

SRINAGAR: The encounter between the security forces and holed up militants in the Akhal forest area of South Kashmir’s Kulgam district entered its third day on Sunday, with intermittent blasts and exchange of fire continuing throughout the night, officials said.

They said the operation was launched Friday after security forces received credible inputs about the presence of militants in the dense forest belt of Akhal.

“So far, two militants have been killed in the encounter, while another is believed to be wounded. A soldier also sustained injuries and is currently under treatment,” the officials said.

High-tech surveillance equipment, including drones and thermal imaging devices, along with elite Para Special Forces, are taking part in the operation, officials said.

Senior police and army officials, including the DGP and the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 15 Corps, are closely monitoring the situation.

This could be one of the biggest anti-militancy operations of the year in Kashmir valley as the operation is still underway. (KNO)