Srinagar: Two militants were killed on Wednesday by security forces in an encounter which ensued during a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in the south Kashmir district of Kulgam, official sources said.
Internet service has been suspended in Kulgam, where clashes erupted at several places.
They said troops of Rashtriya Rifles (RR), Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir police and CRPF launched a CASO at Gopalpora, Kulgam following a tip-off about the presence of militants at 0200 hrs.
However, when the security forces were sealing the area, the militants hiding there opened fire, they said, adding that security forces retaliated ensuing in an encounter. One militant was killed in the initial exchange of fire at 0300 hrs, they said, adding another was shot dead this morning.
The slain militants, reportedly belonging to Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) were identified as Zahir Ahmad and Irfan Manzoor who had joined the militancy only few months ago.
People, mostly youths in the nearby villages, hit the streets and clashed with security forces and state police personnel who were deployed to prevent any demonstration. Clashes were going on when the reports last came in, they said.
The authorities have suspended mobile internet service in Kulgam to prevent rumours. (Agencies)
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