Kulgam, August 2 : Two terrorists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Akhal forest area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district on Saturday morning. The encounter broke out after security forces launched a cordon and search operation late Friday evening, acting on specific intelligence inputs about the presence of terrorists in the area.
During the initial exchange of fire on Friday, brief gunshots were heard, after which the operation was temporarily halted due to darkness. Security forces strengthened the cordon overnight and brought in additional reinforcements to prevent any escape attempts by the terrorists.
Early Saturday morning, contact was re-established and a fresh exchange of fire ensued. In the intense gunfight that followed, two terrorists were neutralized. Officials said the identity and organizational affiliation of the slain terrorists are being verified.
Security forces continue to maintain a tight cordon around the area as the search and sanitization operation is still in progress. The successful operation has averted a possible terror strike and marks another significant blow to anti-national elements operating in the region.
Further details are awaited as the operation progresses. Authorities have urged locals to stay away from the encounter zone until it is fully cleared.
