Upon receiving a tip-off, the security forces began a search operation in Sekipora village.

"Six terrorists were killed in this operation. Weapons and warlike stores have been recovered from the encounter site," Defence Ministry spokesman Colonel Rajesh Kalia said.

Reports coming in from the area said that all the slain militants were locals and belonged to the Hizbul Mujahideen terror outfit.

Authorities have suspended mobile iInternet services in Anantnag district as a precautionary measure.