Srinagar, July 5: A gunfight broke out between security forces and terrorists in the Saidpora area of Shopian district in South Kashmir on Saturday after militants allegedly opened fire while attempting to escape a security cordon.
According to officials, the encounter began during a cordon-and-search operation launched by security forces based on intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area. As the operation progressed, the hiding militants reportedly tried to break through the cordon and fired at the security personnel, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire.
Security forces immediately retaliated, foiling the escape attempt and tightening the cordon around the area. Intermittent firing from both sides continued late into the night as the operation remained underway.
This is the first encounter between security forces and terrorists reported this year in an interior area of the Kashmir Valley.
Local sources claimed that two militants, identified as Latif and Zakir, are believed to be trapped inside the cordoned area. However, officials from the Jammu and Kashmir Police and the Army have not confirmed either the identities or the exact number of militants involved. They said the operation is still in progress and that the number of terrorists could be two or three.
Further details are awaited as the anti-terror operation continues.
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