In a major boost to anti-militancy operations in Jammu and Kashmir, security forces on Wednesday evening shot dead Ghulam Hassan Khan alias Saif-ul-Islam, chief commander of the Hizbul Mujahideen in the state.

Islam was killed near Pohru locality on the outskirts of Srinagar.

Describing the operation as a major success, Inspector General of Police (Kashmir range) K Rajendra told rediff.com that cash amounting to Rs 9.3 million (Rs 93lakh), a satellite phone, an AK 47 and a pistol was recovered from his person.

Saif-ul-Islam had replaced moderate Abdul Majid Dar in 2001, after the latter was sacked by the outfit's Pakistan-based chief Syed Salahuddin.

Incidentally, Dar had been shot dead on March 23 at his native Sopore in Baramulla district.