Bhubaneswar: A fierce encounter broke out between security forces and Maoists in the Gandhamardan hill under Khaprakhol block in Balangir district. The rebels dispersed after the massive retaliation by the security forces.
The exchange of fire occurred when a group of Maoists visited a nearby village to hold a praja court, SP Rishikesh Khilari said.
Acting on a tip-off, security forces surrounded the village, but the Maoists managed to escape into the nearby forest, where they opened fire on the jawans. The security personnel retaliated, and the firing continued throughout the day.
The Maoist group is suspected to have suffered extensive damage, with some rebels reportedly injured. However, the extent of the damage is yet to be confirmed.
Search operation is still underway, the SP said.
To intensify the combing operation, CRPF, DVF, and SOG personnel have been deployed. Joint combing operations are being conducted in Bolangir and Bargarh areas of Gandhamardan.
SP Khilari has appealed to the Maoists to surrender and join the mainstream.
