Two Hizbul militants killed in encounter

A Hizbul Mujahideen militant, who was involved in a deadly attack on a bank cash van in May, was among two ultras killed in an encounter with security forces in Kulgam district, a police official said today.

Security forces launched a cordon and search operation at Gopalpora village in Kulgam district late last night following information about presence of militants there, the official said.

He said in the ensuing gunfight, two local militants were killed. They were identified as Aqib Hussain Itoo and Sohail Ahmad Rather.

The official said one of the slain militants was involved in an attack on a bank cash van in the district on May 1 this year which left five policemen and two bank guards dead.

He was also involved in the killing of a police constable in Yaripora area of Kulgam district last month. The security forces have recovered two weapons from the site of the encounter, the official said, adding further details are awaited.