The encounter which broke out in Bargam village of south Kashmir’s Pulwama district has ended with killing a CRPF man while militants managing to escape.

The encounter started at past midnight at takya Chinar Bagh Mohalla Takya, during which people came in large numbers to save the trapped militants believed to be three in numbers.

In the initial exchange of gunfire a a CRPF trooper Mandeep Kumar sustained injuries. He later succumbed at 92 base hospital.

The militants managed to escape from the gun battle scene due to intense protests by the locals.

A civilian was also injured during the clashes with govt forces. He has been identified as Bashir Ahmad. He is hospitalised and in stable condition.

The forces also destroyed three houses where the militants were hiding.

The police confirmed that militants escaped and said the operation has to be called off to prevent collateral damage.