Security forces engage in separate encounters with militants in Srinagar and Bandipora

SRINAGAR — Security forces launched two operations against suspected militants in Kashmir on Saturday, with an active encounter in Srinagar’s Khanyar area and a continuing search in the forests of Bandipora’s Pannar region following a gunfire exchange late Friday.

In Srinagar’s Khanyar, an encounter erupted early Saturday morning after security forces conducted a cordon and search operation on intelligence suggesting militant presence.

According to a senior police officer, as security personnel closed in on the suspected hideout, they faced gunfire from the militants, prompting a retaliation that triggered the standoff.

Initial reports indicate that two to three militants are likely holed up in the area, and the operation remains ongoing.

Meanwhile, in Bandipora’s Pannar area, a search operation continues after security forces detected suspicious movement and challenged suspected militants on Friday night.

The Army’s Chinar Corps confirmed the incident in a post on X, stating, “On November 1 late evening, suspicious movement was spotted in the general area of Panar, Bandipora. On being challenged, terrorists opened indiscriminate fire and escaped into the jungle.”

Security forces are now combing the dense forest to locate the assailants.