Maoist Leader Killed, Another Injured In Gun Battle With Security Forces In Odisha

Malkangiri: SOG personnel gunned down Maoist leader Kishore during an encounter in the cut-off area of Malkangiri district on Thursday morning. He was the military platoon commander of the banned CPI (Maoist).

Malkangiri SP Rishikesh Khilari said a SOG team had launched a combing operation in Jantri forest following a tip-off about the presence of Maoists.

During the operation, Maoists fired on security personnel who retaliated likewise. After an hour-long exchange of fire, the ultras fled the area. The SOG team later found the body of Kishore. Another cadre is believed to have sustained injuries.

Khilari also informed that the SOG personnel have recovered one AK-17 rifle and some explosives from the site of encounter.

Combing operation in the area has been intensified, he added.

Later, DGP Abhay tweeted to express appreciation for the security forces.