J&K: Anantnag operation enters Day 5

Srinagar: The massive anti militancy operation in Jammu and Kashmir’s Anantnag district entered its fifth day on Sunday.

The operation at Gadol Kokernag Anantnag is challenging for the forces due the dense forest cover.

The Army has been using drones and high-powered shells to flush out the militants. However, so far there is no report of any militant casualty.

"The area is exceptionally confined, with dense woods on one side and a steep trench on the other," said officers involved in the operation.

Security forces has established a rigorous multi-layer cordon in Gadole Kokernag .

On Saturday, a drone's footage showed a suspected hideout destroyed in force action. Another piece of footage showed a militant running for cover after a hideout was hit by shells.

Officials said the operation was taking time as the terrain was tough and challenging and the forces were extra careful.

The operation has been going on since Wednesday after two decorated Army officers, Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles, his company commander, Major Aashish Dhonchak, also from the 19 RR, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Himayun Muzamil Bhat, were killed and two other soldiers were injured in a gun battle in the area.

Forces have been using UAVs and firing mortars to neutralise the militants. (UNI)