A 12-year-old boy is being held hostage by suspected militants inside a house from where they fired at security forces in Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir earlier on Thursday, reported Greater Kashmir. Another civilian who was held hostage has been rescued by security forces.

The encounter began after the security forces started a cordon and search operation in Hajin area of the district following intelligence inputs about the presence of militants. The police said one militant was killed. “Another militant is still holed up inside a house where a 12-year-old boy is also believed to be stuck,” an unidentified police officer said.

Earlier in the day, two police personnel sustained injuries after suspected militants threw a grenade at a police party in Baramulla’s Sopore town, an official statement said. Dangiwacha Station House Officer and his escort official are undergoing treatment for their injuries at a local hospital.

The incident occurred around 10.20 am in Warpora. Security officials have cordoned the area.

Meanwhile, security forces killed two militants in an encounter in Kandi area of Baramulla’s Kalantara, police said. The encounter began after militants opened fire on a search party of the police and security forces. The identity and affiliations of the militants are being ascertained.

Three jawans were injured in the operation. They have been taken to hospital. “Incriminating materials including arms and ammunition were recovered from the site of the encounter,” the press release added.

Security forces have cordoned off the area. The local administration has suspended internet services in the area.