One terrorist killed in ongoing encounter in Kulgam; operation enters Day 3

The encounter began late Friday after security personnel launched a search operation based on credible intelligence inputs indicating the presence of terrorists in the region. (File photo)

A joint team of security forces has neutralised one terrorist during an ongoing counter-terrorism operation in the Akhal Devsar area of south Kashmir’s Kulgam district, officials said on Saturday.

The encounter began late Friday after security personnel launched a search operation based on credible intelligence inputs indicating the presence of terrorists in the region.

The joint operation, involving the Indian Army, Jammu and Kashmir Police, Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), and the Special Operations Group (SOG), led to a fierce gunfight that stretched through the night.

In a post on X, the Indian Army’s Chinar Corps confirmed the development, stating, “OP AKHAL, Kulgam. Intermittent and intense firefight continued through the night. Alert troops responded with calibrated fire and tightened the noose while maintaining contact. One terrorist has been neutralised so far. The operation is ongoing.”

Meanwhile, in a separate incident earlier this week, the Indian Army reported an exchange of fire near the Line of Control (LoC) in the Poonch sector. On July 30, troops deployed along the LoC observed suspicious movement near the border fence and challenged two individuals moving under cover.

According to the Army’s White Knight Corps, the suspects responded with gunfire, prompting an immediate retaliation by Indian troops. “Contact with terrorists. Suspected movement of two individuals was observed by own troops along the fence in general area of Poonch Sector. Gunfire exchanged,” the White Knight Corps said in a post on X.