Massive search operation launched near LoC woods in Kashmir

SRINAGAR:A massive search operation has been launched in the woods near the Line of Control (LoC) in Tangdhar sector in the frontier district of Kupwara, where two militants were killed and two Army personnel, including a Major, injured during the past 24 hours.
A defence ministry spokesperson said troops guarding the LoC in Tanghdar sector noticed a group of militants sneaking into this side under the cover of darkness during the intervening night of July 22 and July 23.
However, the robust counter infiltration grid in place immediately picked up the militants and kept them under constant surveillance till they reached within firing range.
He said in the inclement weather, militants took shelter behind the boulders and the intermittent exchange of fire continued today also.
The gunfight resulted in elimination of two militants and splinter injuries to one Army officer and a soldier who were evacuated to Army Base Hospital, Srinagar yesterday.
The condition of both Army personnel is stable. Search of the area, undertaken in the afternoon yesterday, resulted in recovery of two bodies of the slain militants along with two AK 47 Rifles, two Rucksacks and other warlike stores.
The operation was continuing till last reports came in , Col Joshi said, adding that so far new contact has been established with militants.
Senior Army officers said a large number of militants are waiting near LoC in launch pads across the border, waiting to cross into this side before the infiltration routes are again closed due to snowfall. (AGENCIES)