Top Hizb commander among two ultras killed in Kashmir gunfight

Srinagar, Apr 15 (UNI) A top commander of the Pakistan-based Hizbul Mujahideen and another militant were killed in an ongoing gun-battle with security forces in Shopian area of Kulgam district in south Kashmir today, official sources said.

Giving details, they said personnel of 44 Rashtriya Rifles (RR) and the Special Operation Group (SOG) of the Jammu and Kashmir Police, on specific information, launched a cordon and search operation at Zainabattu village in Shopian area of the newly-carved Kulgam district this morning.

The sources said when the militants were asked to surrender, they opened fire on the security forces which was effectively retaliated.

The militants, three in number, took refuge in the house of Gulla Bhat and started firing on the security personnel from there.

In the ensuing fierce gunfight, two militants of the Hizbul Mujahideen have been killed so far, they added.

The sources said among the two slain militants was Hizb battalion commander Muzammil Wagay alias Assadullah alias Nana.

The encounter was on till reports last came in as the third holed up militant was firing on the security forces from inside the house.

Security forces have cordoned off the house and were ready to launch the final assault.

UNI