Fierce encounter in north Kashmir between holed up militants, forces

Srinagar, Jan 30 (UNI) A fierce encounter was going on between a group of four holed up Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) militants and security forces in north Kashmir, a senior police officer said.

Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP), Anantnag, Javid Iqbal Matoo said a search operation was launched at village Watipora, Kulgam in south Kashmir today following a tip-off about the presence of militants.

He said when the police personnel were about to storm a particular area, militants opened fire. The fire was returned, he said, adding reinforcement from nearby camps, including First Rashtriya Rifles, (RR) has been rushed to the area.

Mr Matoo said it is believed that four HM militants are holed up in the cordoned off area. The encounter was going on when reports last came in, he said.

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