Pulwama (Jammu and Kashmir): As dawn broke on Thursday, a dramatic skirmish unfolded between militants and security personnel in the Frasipora zone of South Kashmir’s Pulwama district.

A senior police official’s dispatch indicated that the clash commenced after intelligence unearthed the potential presence of militants in the area.

Once informed, a joint force of military and police promptly initiated a search operation in the suspected locale. As the security detail approached the militants’ presumed hideout, the insurgents opened fire, igniting an intense exchange of gunfire.

According to on-the-ground observations, a group of two or three militants is reportedly active in the vicinity. Meanwhile, 55 Rashtriya Rifles of the army, CRPF, and police forces have collectively established a containment perimeter, and gunfire is being exchanged on both sides.

In the crossfire, an unidentified militant was neutralized, and the search for other combatants is ongoing, confirmed the officer.

The identity of the purported deceased militant is still under verification, and additional information regarding the encounter remains pending as the operation persists.

Amidst an uptick in political activities across the valley, the police and army are working tirelessly to uphold tranquility and order, safeguarding civilians from potential threats.