Srinagar, September 28: An encounter broke out between security forces and militants in Jammu and Kashmir's Ramban district on Saturday morning. The gunfight took place on Batote-Doda highway after which the area was cordoned off. According to a report, two militants opened fire at a team of security officers, leading to the encounter. A massive search operation was launched in the area following the exchange of fire. Jammu and Kashmir: Pakistan Violates Ceasefire on LoC Ahead of PM Narendra Modi's UN Speech.

A driver informed security forces about the presence of two suspicious men who had tried to stop his vehicle near Dharmund village. A quick reaction team then reached the spot where the suspicious movement was spotted. During the search, the officers were fired upon by militants. The suspected terrorists hurled a grenade and followed it by firing. They were hiding in a nullah. There was no immediate report of any casualty in the encounter. India Counters Pakistan at UNGA, Says 'Imran Khan's Speech is Reminiscent of Dara Adam Khel's Guns'.

"Today (Saturday) morning at about 7.30 am, two suspicious individuals tried to stop a civilian vehicle at the general area Batote on the highway. The driver was alert, did not stop the vehicle and rushed and informed the nearest Army post," Defence spokesman Lt Col Devender Anand said. "The quick reaction team reacted promptly and contact was established with the suspicious individuals. An exchange of fire took place and further details are awaited," he added.

Security Forces at Encounter Site in Ramban:

Following the brief encounter, security forces stopped vehicular movement on Batote-Doda highway as a precautionary measure. The incident comes days after the government withdrew Jammu and Kashmir's special status under Article 370 and Article 35A, and bifurcated the state into two union territories.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 28, 2019 12:39 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).