The massive operation in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district entered its fourth day on Saturday with two to three Lashkar-e-Taiba militants, who were behind the killing of two Army soldiers and one police officer, believed to be still holed up in the forest area, officials said.

Over the last three days, security forces have used drones to pinpoint the location of the militant hideout in the forests at Gadole Kokernag. Security forces have used mortars and RPGs to flush out militants.

A drone's footage showed a suspected hideout destroyed in force action.

Another piece of footage showed a militant running for cover after a hideout was hit by shells.

Officials said the operation was taking time as the terrain was tough and challenging and the forces were extra careful.

On late Friday, Additional Director General of Police, Kashmir, Vijay Kumar, said, "All two-three trapped terrorists will be neutralised."

The operation has been going on since Wednesday after two decorated Army officers, Colonel Manpreet Singh, Commanding Officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles, his company commander, Major Aashish Dhonchak, also from the 19 RR, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Himayun Muzamil Bhat, were killed and two other soldiers were injured in a gun battle in the area.

Forces have been using UAVs and firing mortars to neutralise the militants.

(With UNI inputs)