An encounter between security forces and militants began in Rajwar area of Kupwara district late on Tuesday night when a police search party was fired upon, police said.

“At around 9.30 last night, a police search party was fired upon. A gun battle started and continued for some time,” said a officer at the police control room, Handwara.

Security forces had launched an anti-militancy operation in Wastar forests in Handwara area on Tuesday night following information about the presence of militants in the area.

The area has been cordoned off and operations are on. Further details waited.