On information about presence of militants in the area, security forces launched a cordon and search operation in Shalidora village in Keller area of Shopian, 55 kms from here, last night, officials said.
Militants opened fire on security forces in the wee hours which was retaliated, triggering off a gun battle.
Muneer Ahmad Kalas, a top self-styled commander of Hibzul Mujahideen, was killed in the operation, the officials said, adding security forces were looking for another militant.
The operation was going on till reports last came in.P