3 militants killed by security forces in Kashmir

Srinagar, Dec 18 (UNI) Three militants were gunned down today by the security forces in two different encounters in the north Kashmir, official sources said.

They said troops of the Rashitriya Rifles (RR) and Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir had launched a joint operation at Lalpora in the frontier district of Kupwara this morning, following a tip off that some militants were hiding there.

However, while the troops were busy sealing the area, the militants attacked them with automatic weapons and also hurled grenades at them. Security forces also retaliated, killing one militant an AK 47 rifle besides some arms and ammunition were recovered from the slain militant, they said, adding the operation was still on.

They said troops and SOG launched a joint operation at Sumbler, Bandipora, in the Baramulla district this morning after information was received that militants were holding a meeting there.

As the search operation was going on, militants opened fire and also hurled grenades. Security forces also retaliated and in the fierce clash, two militants were killed.

Two AK rifles, two UBGls and six magzines were recovered from the slain militants.

UNI BAS VD VV1727