4 militants neutralized by security forces in Shopian encounter

Srinagar:Four Lashker-e-Toiba (LeT) militants were killed by security forces in an encounter which ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in south Kashmir district of Shopian, a police spokesman said on Monday.Three militants have been identified as Amir Shafi Mir aka Abu Qasim,Rayees Ah Bhatt & Aqib Ah Malik.

A soldier was also injured who was shifted to 92 Base hospital.Meanwhile, mobile internet has been suspended in Shopian as a precautionary measure to prevent any rumours.

The Spokesman said on a tip-off about the presence of militants, troops of Rashtriya Rifles (RR), Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a joint CASO at village Manihal, Imam Sahib Shopian in the wee hours of Monday.

However, when the security forces were moving towards a particular area in the village after sealing all exit points, militants hiding there opened fire. Security forces also retaliated ensuing in an encounter, he said adding that security forces who were trapped inside a house were repeatedly asked to surrender.

Later, residents, including women, children and elderly persons, were shifted to safe place.With the first light this morning, militants were again given an opportunity to surrender but they continued firing.

Security forces later retaliated and killed two militants. Later, two more militants were gunned down, he said, adding that the militants are affiliated to LeT outfit.One AK rifle and three pistols and other incriminating material were recovered.

A house from where the militants were firing was blasted during the operation.Additional security forces and police personnel have been deployed in the adjoining areas to prevent any law and order problem.(UNI)