Security forces kill 3 terrorists in Indian-controlled Kashmir

Indian security forces on Thursday gunned down three terrorists in a fierce encounter in Indian-controlled Kashmir, a senior defense official said.

"Acting on a tip-off that some terrorists were holed up in Putshai area of Lolab in the northern state's Kupwara district, the security forces cordoned off the area and initiated a search operation this morning," he said, on condition of anonymity.

The terrorists who were hiding suddenly started firing on the security forces while they were combing the area, which sparked the encounter, the official said, adding the three militants were so far killed after four to five hours.

"We have not been able to establish the identity of the three slain militants, but the search operation is still on in the area," he said.

Terrorists mostly sneak into this country from across the border and attack security forces in Indian-controlled Kashmir, a disputed territory over which India and Pakistan have fought at least three major wars, with both staking claim to the region. Endit