Kupwara:  Two terrorists were killed late Sunday evening as the Indian Army foiled an infiltration attempt along the Line of Control (LoC) in the Machil and Dudniyal sectors of Kupwara district. The encounter broke out after troops detected suspicious movement near the border and challenged the infiltrators.

According to defence sources, the terrorists opened fire when asked to surrender, prompting a swift and strong retaliatory response from the Indian troops. Both infiltrators were gunned down during the exchange. Security forces have launched an extensive search operation in the area to ensure no other militants are hiding in the vicinity.

The operation was jointly carried out by the Indian Army and Jammu and Kashmir Police, based on intelligence inputs suggesting possible infiltration attempts from across the border. Officials said the alert troops noticed movement close to the LoC around 7 p.m. and immediately engaged the suspects.

No casualties have been reported on the side of security forces. Weapons and other materials are expected to be recovered once the area is fully secured. The identity and affiliation of the slain terrorists are yet to be confirmed.

Kupwara, particularly the Machil sector, remains one of the most sensitive stretches along the LoC and has seen repeated infiltration attempts over the years. Security officials say such activities often rise before the onset of winter when heavy snowfall blocks mountain passes and restricts movement across the border.

The latest encounter comes amid heightened vigilance across the LoC, with security forces maintaining tight surveillance to prevent any militant infiltration before winter sets in. Authorities have reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring peace and security in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir.