Hizbul militant killed in encounter in Doda

A self-styled section commander of Hizbul Mujahideen outfit was shot dead by security forces during an encounter in Marmat area of Doda district today.

On specific information about the presence of a militant in Doda forest of Marmat area, about 193 kms from Jammu, Rashtriya Rifle troops launched a search operation last night to nab him, police said.

Troops located the militant early today and in the subsequent encounter, he was killed.

The slain militant has been identified as Mohammad Usama, police said, adding an AK-47 rifle, two magazines and 44 AK rounds were recovered from him.

Usama was active in militancy since 2008. He was a resident of the district.