BANDIPORA: Security forces on Thursday intensified their search operation in the Renji forest area of north Kashmir's Bandipora district where two soldiers were injured in an exchange of gunfire with the terrorists.

A joint team of Police, Army's 13RR, and CRPF launched a cordon and search operation in Renji forest area of Bandipora yesterday based on specific information about the presence of at least two to three terrorists, officials said.

Upon approaching the suspected area, the terrorists opened fire on the security personnel, leading to an exchange of gunfire.

"All exit points have been sealed, and additional measures, such as installing lights, have been taken to prevent the terrorists from escaping," said an officer.

The search operation, initiated on Wednesday, continued throughout the night and has been ongoing on Thursday as well.

"To enhance the search efforts, helicopters and other resources have been deployed, although the possibility of terrorists escaping cannot be ruled out at this stage," the officer added.