Lachipora encounter: Security forces shot dead 2 militants; gunbattle underway

Baramulla (J&K): Security forces in Jammu and Kashmir on Sunday shot dead two militants during a gunfight in the state's Baramulla district, even as a massive search operation is underway to secure the area.

The gunfight broke out near the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector in North Kashmir's Baramulla district on Saturday.

The soldiers of 17 JAK RIF and Baramulla Police were patrolling the area near the Lachipora forest on Saturday when the militant group opened fire at them.

After being challenged, the suspected militants opened fire on the forces triggering off an encounter. So far, two militants have been killed during the gunfight," he said. The encounter is currently underway, ANI reported quoting an Army officer.

The encounter comes close on the hills of another attack by militants in the state's Pampore region on Saturday.

Eight CRPF personnel were martyred and 24 others injured in the attack. Two terrorists involved in the attack were gunned down.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his condolences and said, "I salute the courage of the CRPF personnel martyred today in J&K. They served the nation with utmost dedication. Pained by their demise. (sic)."

Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said that he is praying for the early recovery of those injured.

CRPF DG K Durga Prasad has briefed Home Minister Rajnath Singh on the incident and will be visiting Pampore on Sunday to take stock of the situation.