Army foils major infiltration bid, kills six on line of control

Army foiled a major infiltration bid on the line of control (LoC) on Sunday when it killed six militants trying to sneak in from the Uri sector of Baramulla district in north Kashmir.

Alert troops deployed on LoC spotted a group of six heavily armed terrorists trying to cross over, Lieutenant Colonel JS Brar, defence spokesperson at Srinagar, said on Monday. “On being challenged, a fire fight ensued which continued through the night. Six terrorists with arms have been gunned down so far,” he said.

The operation was conducted at a high altitude in a thickly forested area. “There is no damage to troops so far. We are conducting searches in the area for hiding militants,” he said.

This is the fifth major infiltration bid since June in north Kashmir. Army fears a rise in infiltration before the onset of winter, when snowfall blocks all passes making it difficult for people to trek.

Meanwhile, curfew was re-imposed in parts of Srinagar and some towns as a precaution. Shops, business establishments and schools remained shut elsewhere following a hartal call given by Hurriyat Conference’s hardline faction.

Four people were injured when police used force in Maisuma area. Locals alleged  the police action was unwarranted as there was no stone pelting.
Heavy deployment of police and CRPF has been made in different parts of the Valley to prevent processions.