Srinagar, October 21: Three Indian Army jawans were killed and one severely injured in a combat with heavily-armed cross-border militants near the Line of Control (LoC) in Jammu's Sunderbani sector. Two Pakistani intruders were also neutralised in the encounter.

The identities of the deceased soldiers were yet to be released by the Defence spokesperson. According to news agency ANI, the operation is currently underway. From the site of combat, the forces have recovered two AK-47 rifles. Hours Ago, Three Militants Killed in Kulgam's Laroo Region.

The fatal skirmish at border came hours after three militants affiliated to the Hizbul Mujahideen were killed in an encounter in North Kashmir's Kulgam district.

The counter-insurgency operation, carried out by the joint team of J&K police, CRPF and Army, is likely to evoke protests as six civilians were killed in an explosion shortly after the militants were shot dead.

"Civilians visited encounter site immediately after operation in spite of request not to visit as thorough search wason for explosives. They didn't listened and thus visited the spot. Some explosive substance went off resulting in injuries to death of civilians," said the statement issued by Jammu & Kashmir police after the casualties were reported.

Former chief minister Mehbooba Mufti said the death of civilians would further aggravate the grave situation in the Valley. "Extremely saddened by the news of Kulgam incident, where civilians were once again caught in the cross-fire of violence, thus adding fuel to the already volatile situation. All words of condemnation, condolence sound very hollow at this tragedy," she said.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Oct 21, 2018 05:54 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).