Alert troops foiled a major infiltration bid on the Line of Control in Machil sector at the border district of Kupwara on Tuesday. Five intruders were killed in the encounter.

According to a defence spokesperson, troops of the 7 Para Regiment noticed suspicious movement near the border fencing in Lashdat area, 140 kms from Srinagar [Images], late on Monday night.

"The group of infiltrators was challenged to surrender, but they opened fire on the surrounding troops. After a long gunfight, five intruders were killed. A huge cache of arms and ammunition were recovered from them, including five AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition," the spokesperson said.

"The operation concluded on Tuesday evening," he added.

According to Army sources, infiltration of militants from across the border has registered an increase in the last four months, as compared to the corresponding period last year.