Encounter breaks out in Pulwama village, Hizb Chief believed to be trapped

Pulwama: An encounter breaks out between government forces and militants at Beighpora village in Awantipora area of Pulwama district in South Kashmir on Wednesday morning.

Sources said, Hizb Chief Riyaz Naikoo is believed to be trapped in this encounter.

The encounter broke after night long search operation in the village by government forces including Indian Army’s 55 RR and Awantipora Police.

Earlier, government forces had launched cordon and search operation in the village following the inputs about presence of Hizb Chief in the area.

Pertinently Beighpora is the native village of Hizbul Mujahedeen Militant Commander Riyaz Naikoo.

Meanwhile another encounter was underway between government forces and militants at Sharshali village in Khrew area of Pampore town in Pulwama district in which one militant was killed in this encounter so far. More details awaited.