Sajad Lone

Awantipora, Oct 26 (KNS): An encounter broke out between militants and government forces in Noopora area of Awantipora in South Kashmir Pulwama district on Monday evening.

Reports reaching to Kashmir News Service said that Joint team of Army's 42 RR, CRPF and SOG of Jammu and Kashmir police jointly launched the Cordon and Search operation (CASO) in the are following the inputs presence of militants.

An official said as the joint team of forces surrounded the suspected spot the hiding militants fired upon them which was retaliated ensuing gunfight in the area.

A senior police officer also confirmed the exchange of gunfire between militants and government forces and said the gunfight is underway.

Earrlier today General Officer Commanding (GOC) 15 Corps Lieutenant General BS Raju appealed local militants to “switch-off” the path of militancy or face tough action from the Army. (KNS)