Two militants killed in north Kashmir encounter

Srinagar, Sep 4: Two militants were today killed in a fierce encounter with security forces in the apple township of Sopore in north Kashmir's Baramulla district, official sources said. Meanwhile, all educational institutions have been closed in the district, where mobile internet has also been snapped as a precautionary measure, official sources told UNI. They said on a tip-off about the presence of militants, security forces and Special Operation Group (SOG) of Jammu and Kashmir police launched a joint search operation at Shankergund Bradh, 3 km from main town Sopore on Kupwara road early this morning. The entire area was sealed and residents were directed to remain indoors. Security forces have also been posted in strength outside the cordoned off area to prevent any demonstration as has been witnessed in other parts of the valley during operation against militants. However, when the security forces were moving towards a particular area in the village, the militants opened fire, they said, adding that the fire was retaliated after the militants refused to surrender. Two militants were killed in the encounter, they said, adding that the operation still continued. The identity of the militants was being ascertained. For precautionary measure, the administration has ordered closure of all educational institutions in the district today to prevent any law and order problem. To prevent spread of any rumours, internet service has also been snapped in Sopore, they said. UNI