Chief Commader of JuM and his body guard killed in Kashmir

Srinagar, Oct 11 (UNI) A self styled Chief Commander (Operational) of Jamait-ul-Mujahideen (JuM) and his body guard were killed in a fierce encounter by the security forces today, a senior police officer said.

Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Jammu and Kashmir police for North Kashmir DR B Srinivas said a joint operation was launched by the Special Operation Group (SOG) of the state police and 10 Para at village Watrina, Bandipora, about 55 km from here this morning.

During the operation an encounter ensued after militants opened fire from a house. Security forces also retaliated and in the fierce gun battle two militants were killed.

Later the slain militants were identified as Zulfikar Ali alias Abu Hamza, a resident of Lahore, Pakistan, of JuM and his body guard Farazat Hussain.

Dr Srinivas said Abu Hamza, a listed militant, who had been active for the past six years in North Kashmir, particularly Bandipore.

Ajas Bazipore and Hajan, was responsible for several militancy related incidents, including killing of about a dozen persons, which also incouded three counter insurgents. Two AK assault rifles and other arms and ammunitiion were recovered from the slain militants.

UNI