Srinagar: Two Hizb militants have been killed in an overnight gunfight with government forces in southern Kashmir’s Shopian village.

The slain militants have been identified as Amir Amin of Awneera and Idrees Ahmad of Safnagri.

Idrees, a former soldier, joined the militant ranks this year on April 15 when he was on official leave at home. He was posted in Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAKLI).

Meanwhile, a police spokesperson said that the two slain militants were involved in attacks on security establishments in the area.

“Incriminating materials including arms and ammunition were recovered from the site of encounter. Police has registered a case and initiated investigation in the instant matter,” the police spokesperson said.

He urged residents not to venture inside the encounter zone since such an area can prove dangerous due to stray explosive materials.

“People are requested to cooperate with police till the area is completely sanitized and cleared of all the explosives materials, if any” the spokesperson added.