Top Lashkar-e-Toiba terrorist Bashir Lakshari trapped in security forces' cordon in J&K's Anantnag, encounter underway

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Srinagar: A fierce encounter is underway between security forces and militants in Anantnag district of Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday.

Security forces launched a cordon-and-search operation in Brenti-Batpora in Anantnag early today after they received information about the presence of the militants, a police official said.

Dreaded Lashkar-e-Toiba commander Bashir Lakshari and three terrorists are trapped in the security forces cordon in village Brenti in Anantnag.

The forces have cordoned off the area and are engaged in a gunbattle with the terrorists.

A woman civilian was killed in a cross-firing between security forces and militants.

Meanwhile, locals started pelting stones at the security forces. Twelve protesters were reported to be injured.

Lashkari is said to be the mastermind of the June 16 terrorist attack when a police party was ambushed in the outskirts of Anantnag district of South Kashmir.

Six policemen, including a Station House Officer of Achabal area were killed in the attack.

The terrorists first overpowered them, then fatally shot them in their faces from close range and escaped with their weapons.