Three Maoists killed in encounter in Odisha

Malkangiri: At least three Maoists were killed and few others were injured during an exchange of fire with the police at Bejhaguda forests on Sunday morning.

One of the three slain Maoists was identified as Sunadhar, a member of Darbha Division. He was carrying Rs 5 lakh reward on his head.

According to Malkanagiri district superintendent of police Mitrabhanu Mohapatra, the acted on a tip-off which said that that the rebels were to hold a meeting. They then launched an operation in Bhejaguda forest of Mathili area, a team of District Voluntary Force (DVF) and Special Operation Group (SOG) jawans raided the place which resulted in a fierce gun battle.

The gun-battle which started around 10.30 AM lasted for 30 minutes.

A pistol, some sharp weapons, walkie talkie sets, maoist uniforms and several other naxal materials including literature were recovered from the site.

Stating that around 10 rebels were present in the camp, the SP said  a few ultras who sustained injuries during the gun-battle managed to escape.

A search operation has been launched in the forest and combing and patrolling has been intensified in the area after the incident.