Shopian, Apr 19: Two Hizbul Mujahideen militants were killed in a gunfight with security forces in Zeipora hamlet of South Kashmir’s Shopian district on Monday, Police said. 

Police identified the slain militants as Sabzar Ahmad Ganie of Sehpora Kulgam and Amir Ahmad Bhat of Malibugh, Imamsahib Shopian.  Both the militants were associated with the Hizb militant outfit, police said. 

Police said that a joint team of Police, Army’s 34 RR and 178 BN CRPF launched a Cordon and Search Operation (CASO) in Zeipora hamlet of Shopian after receiving inputs about the presence of militants in the area.

“As the joint team of forces approached towards the suspected spot, the hiding militants fired upon them, which was retaliated, triggering an encounter.”

The police said the hiding militants were killed within hours after they rejected the surrender offer.

“Arms, ammunition were recovered from the site of the encounter. A case under relevant sections of law and investigation has been initiated,” said police.

The authorities have also suspended internet services in the districts.

According to reports, this year so far 38 militants have been killed in Jammu and Kashmir and most of them belong to Shopian district.