72-hour-long gun battle in north Kashmir ends, 17 killed

Srinagar, Aug 24 (UNI) A 72-hour-long gun battle in the woods in Machil sector in north Kashmir ended today, official sources said.

They said fourteen militants and three soldiers, including a commanding officer were killed in the clash.

Sources said the operation was stopped last night due to darkness.

However, with the first light early this morning, troops launched fresh operation. As the troops were marching ahead, militants opened fire.

Troops also retaliated and in the fierce clash two more militants were killed.

Till last night 12 militants and three soldiers were killed and four soldiers were wounded in the encounter which started on Thursday evening.

This was the longest operation during this year in north Kashmir.

UNI BAS QAB RP CS1749