Maoists Flee After Heavy Exchange Of Fire With Security Forces In Odisha’s Kalahandi; Camp Busted

Bhawanipatna: Two days after 3 CRPF personnel were killed in a Maoist ambush in Odisha’s Nuapada district, security forces faced heavy firing during a combing operation in neighbouring Kalahandi district on Thursday.

According to reports, security forces comprising Kalahandi police, SOG and DVF carried out a joint operation in Labanagada forest in the district following information that some senior Maoist cadres were camping there.

As the security forces came closer to the camp, the Maoists opened fire. The cadres of the banned outfit reportedly fired from light machine gun (LMG) and other automatic weapons. In retaliation, the security forces fired from under barrel grenade launcher (UBGL) and AK-47.

Following intense exchange of fire from both sides, the Maoists managed to flee into deep forest. Later, the security forces conducted a raid on the deserted Maoist camp, according to an official release.

During the search of the camp, the security forces recovered two IEDs, one booby trap, detonators, Maoist literature, solar plate, banners, electric wire, medicines and other materials.

The police suspected that around 30 Maoist cadres were present in the camp. Additional forces have been deployed in the combing operation in the area to trace the Maoists.

It may be noted that three Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed in a Maoist ambush at Patadhara reserve forest under Boden block of Nuapada district on June 21. There was a fierce exchange of fire between CRPF and the Maoists.

Also Read: 3 CRPF Personnel Martyred In Maoist Ambush, Odisha Govt Announces Rs 20L Ex-Gratia