Mendhar (J-K), Jan 5: The fierce gunbattle between security personnel and militants continued for the fifth consecutive day today in Bhati Dhar area in Mendhar sector of Poonch district.

Four militants, one policeman and two soldiers have so far died in the encounter, which began on Thursday.

"We are facing some problems due to thick forest. Our two soldiers and a policeman lost their lives. Search operation is on and we are hopeful of success soon," said Kamal Saini, deputy inspector general of police, Rajouri-Poonch range.

The militants are suspected to owe allegiance to Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) outfit.

The deceased army men have been identified as Subedar Rakesh Kumar and Naik A P Singh of counter-insurgency outfit Rashtriya Rifles of the Indian Army.

A large number of troops have been rushed to the area. Search operation is on to flush out the militants. (ANI)