Pakistani soldier killed as India 'violates' cease-fire

By Islamuddin Sajid

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan (AA) - A Pakistani soldier was killed during exchange of fire with Indian forces along the Kashmir border, the military said on Thursday.

In a statement, it alleged India of violating cease-fire along the Line of Control, a de facto border that splits the disputed region of Jammu and Kashmir between India and Pakistan.

Indian troops committed "unprovoked" cease-fire violation in Satwal sector, killing a 22-year-old "valiant soldier," the press release said, adding that Pakistan army responded "effectively."

Tensions are running high since Pakistan accused India of attacking UN observers in its part of the disputed region, and planning a "false-flag" operation in the Himalayan valley.

The UN has confirmed last week's incident, saying it is being investigated. India, however, denies its forces opened fire.

Separately, the military said a soldier was killed in a clash in southwestern Balochistan province.

Security forces killed a terrorist and rounded up another following an intelligence-based operation in Silak Kaur, Awaran, it said in a statement.

A huge cache of arms, ammunition and communication equipment was recovered from the hideout, and during the exchange of fire one army soldier lost his life.