Kashmir encounter on, 4 more soldiers killed

The clash between militants and army in Hafruda forests of border district Kupwara continued for the third day on Monday. The clash left five militants and four soldiers dead on Monday.

The clash between militants and army in Hafruda forests of border district Kupwara continued for the third day on Monday. The clash left five militants and four soldiers dead on Monday.

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With this the death toll of militants has risen to 11. Eight soldiers, including a major, have been killed. Defence spokesperson Lt. Col J S Brar said that operation was on and the troops suspect presence of more militants in the area. The clash between militants and troops erupted on Saturday.

Authorities believe that the militants were the part of the group that has recently infiltrated to this side of LoC. Sources said that the army has laid a siege around an area of five kilometre radius in the woods to track down suspected militants.

According to reports, Gujjar localities residing in the besieged area have been evacuated to safer places and a massive operation was on. In a separate clash, police and troops of 62 RR shot dead a Hizbul Mujahideen militant at Ratnipora in Shopian district.

The slain militant was identified as Sheraz Ahmad of Pandochan village in the same area.