Srinagar, Dec 24: The standoff between three Hizbul Mujahideen terrorists holding five civilians hostage inside a mosque and security forces in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kulgam District entered the second day today.

According to a defence spokesman, “The militants have been holed up inside the mosque at Palnoo village since yesterday afternoon. ”

“Army troops have launched a search operation following specific information about the presence of militants in a mosque, ” he added

He said efforts are being made to secure the release of the civilians.

Army and state police have surrounded the mosque. They have asked the militants to surrender but so far they have not responded.

The incident took place when the civilians were coming out from mosque after offering mid-day prayers. (ANI)