Jammu and Kashmir: Security forces clash with terrorists in Kulgam, two soldiers martyred

In separate encounters in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district on Saturday, two soldiers lost their lives while five terrorists were gunned down by security forces. The operations, marked by intense exchanges of gunfire, unfolded in Modergam and Frisal Chinnigam villages.

The first encounter occurred in Modergam village, where Lance Naik Pradeep Nain, a para commando, made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Acting on credible intelligence inputs, security forces cornered a group of terrorists in their hideout. The Kashmir Zone Police confirmed the development via Twitter, stating, "Encounter started at Modergam Village of #Kulgam District. Police and Security Forces are on work."

Simultaneously, a second gunfight erupted in Frisal Chinnigam village after security forces received information about Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorists in the area. During the operation, Havaldar Raj Kumar of the 1st Rashtriya Rifles was martyred. Security forces encountered fierce resistance upon approaching the suspected terrorist hideout, resulting in a prolonged exchange of fire.

Inspector General of Police, Kashmir, VK Birdhi, visited both encounter sites and affirmed the continuation of the anti-terror operations. This incident follows last month's encounter in Pulwama district, where two top commanders of The Resistance Front, a Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba offshoot, were neutralized by security forces.