2 Hizbul militants killed in Srinagar encounter (3rd Ld)

Srinagar, May 19 (IANS) Jammua and Kashmir Police and CRPF troopers were successful on Tuesday in neutralising two Hizbul militants, who were hiding in the old city area of Srinagar after hours of pitch battle that started in the middle of the night.

Two terrorists have been killed in the ongoing encounter in downtown Srinagar by police along with CRPF. Both belong to Hizbul Mujahiddin. Two weapons and ammunition recovered, police said in a brief statement.

Three security forces personnel — two J&K policemen and one CRPF trooper were earlier injured after the joint team launched a combing operation on a specific tip off about the presence of militants at Nawakadal in the old city area.

As the security forces cordoned off the Kanemazar area and zeroed in on the hideout, militants started firing triggering the encounter.

IG Kashmir Vijay Kumar told IANS this firefight between militants and security forces has taken place in Srinagar after almost two years. Mobile Internet and voice calling except for BSNL service provider has been suspended.

–IANS

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