A top Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist wanted for several attacks in Jammu and Kashmir was killed in an encounter with security forces in the higher reaches of central Kashmir's Budgam district on Tuesday, officials said.

The slain terrorist was identified by security officials as Sulaiman Shah, alias Musa. The Army's Chinar Corps did not officially disclose his identity.

The Army launched an operation in the general area of Korag, Yousmarg, in central Kashmir. According to the Army, troops from the Rashtriya Rifles, along with other security forces, noticed suspicious activity and challenged the suspected terrorists.

The militants responded by opening fire, triggering an exchange of gunfire, the Army said. One terrorist was subsequently neutralised in the operation.

Officials said Musa was killed during the gunfight in the Dudhpathri forest area, while the operation remained underway.

"Vigilant troops observed suspicious activity, and upon being challenged, the terrorists opened fire, prompting a fierce exchange of gunfire during which one terrorist was neutralised," the Army said.

Musa had been wanted for his alleged involvement in several attacks on both sides of the Pir Panjal range over the past several years, officials said. He had also escaped an encounter in the Yousmarg hills earlier this month.

His close associate Yasir was killed in that encounter on September 5.

Officials described Musa's killing as a major setback for the LeT's operations in Jammu and Kashmir.

Further details about the operation are awaited.

Source: India Today