Three terrorists of Pakistan based Lashkar-e-Taiba terrorist outfit were gunned down by the joint team of security forces in Ranipora area of Anantnag district on Saturday.
So far 74 terrorists have been gunned down by the security forces since January 1, 2021.
According to Srinagar based Defence PRO, "On receiving specific intelligence inputs from sources about the presence of three terrorists in the built-up area of Kargom, Ranipora of Anantnag district, Ladkipura based Rashtriya Rifles alongwith JKP & CRPF launched a cordon and search operation around 1.00 p.m on Saturday"
On seeing the movement of security forces the terrorists tried to escape through a nallah. According to Defence PRO, " the terrorists were asked to surrender. However, the terrorists resorted to heavy firing on the security forces and a fire fight ensued".
During the exchange of fire three terrorists namely Arif Ahmad Hajjam of LeT, Basit Gani of HM and Sohail Ahmad Bhat were neutralized. Two of the eliminated terrorists belonged to Anantnag district and third was from Pulwama.
One AK 47 and two pistols with other war-like stores have been recovered from the encounter site.
As per Police records Arif Ahmad Hajjam was involved in the brutal killing of Hav Manzoor Beigh of 162 Territorial Army Battalion on 06 Jun 2019 while he was on leave.