Srinagar: Security forces on Tuesday gunned down four heavily-armed terrorists in a fierce encounter which broke out early morning in Nadigam area of south Kashmir's Shopian district.

Based on specific intelligence inputs, a joint team of Indian Army’s 34 RR, 23 Para and SOG of Jammu and Kashmir Police cordoned off Nadigam.

As forces intensified searches towards the suspected spot, the hiding terrorists fired upon security forces triggering an encounter in the area.

A senior Army official told MyNation that there were inputs about the presence of 4-5 terrorists taking shelter in the area after which a joint operation was launched by security forces. 

"All the terrorists have been cordoned and we are trying to neutralize them", he added.

The Indian Army has also confirmed the killing of four terrorists in the fierce encounter. 

In the ongoing encounter, three jawans of Indian Army including two commandos of 23 Para of Indian Army have received critical injuries. One para commando later succumbed to his injuries.

A senior police official told MyNation that the operation is in the final stage and more details will be shared soon.

"We have lost one Para commando, two others are injured and have been evacuated to nearby hospital for treatment", he added.