Terrorist gunned down in Kulgam encounter; Search Op underway

SRINAGAR, Aug 2: A terrorist was killed in an ongoing encounter with security forces in the Akhal forest area of Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam district, officials confirmed on Saturday morning. The encounter, which began on Friday night, erupted after security forces launched a cordon and search operation based on specific intelligence about terrorist presence in the dense forest of south Kashmir. Initial gunfire was exchanged between the militants and security personnel, but the operation was paused overnight due to low visibility and terrain challenges.

Security forces fortified the area through the night, bringing in reinforcements to prevent any escape. At daybreak, the operation resumed with fresh exchanges of fire leading to the killing of one terrorist, officials said. The identity and organizational affiliation of the deceased terrorist are yet to be confirmed.

Officials stated that the area remains cordoned off and the search operation is still in progress to rule out the presence of any more militants hiding in the vicinity. “The operation is being carried out with utmost caution due to the difficult terrain and the possibility of more militants being present in the area,” a senior police official said.

This is the latest in a series of counter-insurgency operations being carried out across the Kashmir Valley in recent weeks, as security forces intensify efforts to root out remaining militant elements from the region. Further updates are awaited. (Agencies)