Odisha Police Neutralize Maoist Threat in Kandhamal

In a decisive encounter, two Maoists were neutralized by the Odisha Police in Kandhamal district on Monday, with arms and ammunition recovered from their encampment, according to an official statement.

The Maoists, identified as Manku, an Area Committee Member, and Chandan, a party affiliate, were allied with the outlawed Communist Party of India (Maoist). Authorities retrieved a rifle, revolvers, cartridges, and communication devices from the site.

Acting on a tip-off regarding Maoist activity near a protected forest area under the jurisdiction of the Baliguda police station, the District Voluntary Force commenced a tactical operation, culminating in a gunfight that resulted in the deaths of the two Maoists. The state's Director General of Police praised the Kandhamal police for their exemplary execution of the operation.

(With inputs from agencies.)