Hizb militant killed in encounter in Shopian

SRINAGAR – Security forces on Wednesday shot dead in Kashmir a Hizbul Mujahideen militant, a day after he shot and wounded a police officer, officials said.
Umar Ishfaq Malik alias Musa of Bongam Shopian, who was allegedly involved in an attack on an Assistant Sub Inspector of Police on Tuesday, was killed in a gun battle in Nadigam village in Shopian district when joint teams of security forces were carrying out a cordon and a search operation.
“As the joint search party proceeded towards a suspected spot, the hidden terrorist fired indiscriminately, leading to an encounter,” a police spokesman said. The fighting left the militant dead.
He said Umar Malik was linked to the Hizb.
“The killed terrorist was a categorized terrorist and was active since 2020. He was involved in several terror crime cases including recent attack on ASI Shabir Ahmad at Amishijipora Shopian while he was returning back from a mosque after offering prayers,” the spokesman said .
Police said the slain militant was also instrumental in motivating youths to join the militant ranks.
“Besides, he provided logistic and other support to the terrorists in the area,” he added.
Police said incriminating materials and arms were recovered from the site of encounter.
This year, the security forces have stepped up anti-militant operations across Kashmir. Last month, 21 militants including some top commanders were killed in gunfights in Kashmir.