Srinagar, Oct 12 (UNI) Asserting that 18 militants were killed in eight different encounters with security forces in the summer capital, Srinagar this year so far, J&K police chief on Monday said that Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT) has been trying to find foothold in the city.

However, Director General of Police (DGP) Dilbag Singh said security forces have been able to locate and neutralize the militants before they can setup base in Srinagar city.

“For the first time, Srinagar city has seen eight encounters so far in which 18 militants were killed so far this year,” Mr Singh told reporters during a press conference here on Monday.

Answering a question about militants roaming freely in the city, he said, “LeT has been trying to find foothold in the city. But our network is good and whenever they (militants) try to find foothold in the city, troops are able to local and neutralize them.”

“We can’t stop militants from coming into the city as we will have to put everyone coming in Srinagar through Xray machine which is not possible,” he said in response to a question.

Giving details about Srinagar encounter, he said a top LeT commander, a Pakistani national, was among two militants killed in the exchange of fire at Barzulla on Monday.

“The Pakistani militant, identified as Saifullah, was responsible for attack on CRPF at Nowgam in Srinagar last week that left two jawans dead and three others injured,” he said.

“Saifullah is affiliated to Lashkar-e-Toiba (LeT),” he said, adding the militant is also responsible for an attack on CRPF at Chadoora in Budgam in which an Assistant Sub Inspector (ASI) was killed in September.
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