Odisha: Four Maoists Killed In Encounter With Forces In Kandhamal District; Arms, Ammunition Recovered

At least four Maoists were killed in an encounter with security personnel in Odisha's Kandhamal district on Sunday (5 July) morning.

A joint team of District Voluntary Force (DVF) and Special Operation Group (SOG) was conducting a combing operation in the area when the Maoists opened fire on them. In the retaliatory action by the security personnel, four ultras were killed.

"There was an exchange of fire between Maoists and SOG, DVF at Tumudibandha, Kandhamal. Security forces were fired upon and they retaliated in self defence. There are four casualties on Maoists side. Some of them are injured. Combing operations are on in the area. SP is at the spot," tweeted Odisha Police.

Chief secretary Asit Tripathy congratulated the officers and jawans for the successful operation.

"Congrats to Officers and Jawans of Odisha Police on successful ops in Kandhamal. Their brave action is much appreciated. Death of four Maoists confirmed. This strengthens our resolve to free our state from extremism and spur all round development in the state," tweeted the Chief Secretary.

(This story has been published from a wire agency feed without modifications to the text. Only the headline has been changed.)