J&K: Encounter in Kathua ends, two security men killed

Combing operation is currently underway to search for the terrorists.

Police sources in Jammu also said that one civilian was killed in the cross firing.

The state of Jammu and Kashmir earlier in the day witnessed heavy gun battle as terrorists attacked a police station in Kathua district killing two security personnel.

One Jammu and Kashmir police officer and a CRPF jawan were killed in the terror attack.

Three terrorists had taken at least 5 cops inside the police station.

According to reports, the terrorists belong to a Fidayeen group.

The terrorists, who were believed to be in military uniforms, opened fire at the Rajbagh Police Station a little after 6 am.

This police station is located barely 15 kilometres from the International Border.

Following the incident, the Jammu-Pathankot highway has been closed for traffic.

Meanwhile, Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh earlier spoke to the DGP of J&K and the heads of other security agencies regarding the terrorist attack in Kathua district.

The Union Home Minister has instructed the Home Secretary to actively monitor the situation.

The MHA is also in touch with the agencies of J&K.

Former J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has condemned the attack and tweeted: "My thoughts are with those brave security personnel dealing with the Fidayeen attack in Kathua town of Jammu this morning."

He said the terrorists who are carrying out the attack came from across the border.

"These Fidayeen will have walked across the border last night & launched their attack this morning which is the past pattern as well," he wrote.

Reacting to the incident,  Minister of State (Independent Charge) Jitendra Singh blamed India's neighbour Pakistan for the attack.

"I want to salute the brave officer who died while fighting against the terrorists. It seems that our neighbour will not stop their mischief," said he.

(With inputs from Saleem Iqbal Qadri)