“This is a huge success for the police and security forces. This is not a small achievement,” says IGP Vijay Kumar
Hizbul Mujahideen’s chief operational commander Saifullah has been killed in an encounter at Rangreth area in Srinagar, IGP Kashmir Vijay Kumar said on November 1.
Also read: Top Hizbul Mujahideen commander Riyaz Naikoo killed in Kashmir: police
“Saifullah had taken over the reins of the Hizb after the killing of its chief Reyaz Naikoo in an encounter in May,” IGP Kumar said.
A suspect has been arrested at the encounter site and is being questioned, the police said.
The gunfight had started on Nov. 1 afternoon as the security forces launched a search-and-cordon operation following a tip off about the presence of militants.
PTI adds:
Saifullah, who had taken command of the outfit after the killing of Riyaz Naikoo in May this year, was one of the most wanted militants in the Kashmir Valley and involved in several attacks on the security forces, an official said.
Also read: Riyaz Naikoo topped list of 10 most wanted terrorists in J&K
Addressing reporters near the encounter site, Mr. Kumar said they had received information that Saifullah had come here from south Kashmir and was hiding in a house.
“So the security forces cordoned off the area and an operation was launched. In the exchange of firing, one militant was killed. According to our source, we are 95% sure he is Saifullah. We are retrieving the body and it will be identified,” Mr. Kumar added.
“This is a huge success for the police and security forces. This is not a small achievement,” Mr. Kumar said.
Also read: Hizbul Mujahideen, Al-Badr modules busted, 5 held
Incriminating material, including arms and ammunition, were recovered from the encounter site, he added.
Mr. Kumar said the network of J&K Police has become stronger and police receive information about any militant entering the city.