Srinagar, April 5: Five militants and two soldiers were killed in a gunfight in Kupwara forests.
Defence ministry spokesman Col Rajesh Kalia said that the militants were infiltrators and the operation was still going on.
“alert troops braving inclement weather and hostile terrain have so far eliminated five militants attempting to infiltrate across the Line of Control (LoC) taking advantage of bad weather,” Kalia said
Kalia said that one soldier has been killed and two others were critically injured.
“Evacuation of the injured is hampered due to heavy snow and rough terrain conditions,” Kalia said.
Sources said army had rushed elite para troopers to Rangdoori, Guguldara and Teen Behak area of Jumgund soon after contact was established with militants.
Army sources said firing continued throughout the night and is still today.
The operation was launched initially by army’s 8 JAT after intercepting movement a group of militants on Wednesday.
In the initial phase encounter, five militants and a soldier were killed in the gunfight and two more were injured.
“Despite prevailing inclement weather conditions, casualties have been evacuated. Unfortunately, two more soldiers succumbed to their injuries, others are presently undergoing treatment. Total three soldiers martyred,” Defense Spokesman Col Rajesh Kalia in a statement issued to KNS said, adding” Operation is in progress”. (KNS)
