Maoist Dead, DVF Jawan Injured in Exchange of Fire in Odisha’s Kandhamal

Phulbani: A Maoist was killed and a DVF jawan injured in an exchange of fire between security forces and extremists in the Kamberikia forest of Kandhamal district, Odisha, on Saturday.

Acting on intelligence about a Maoist camp harbouring plans to attack security personnel, Kandhamal SP Suvendu Kumar Patra ordered a search operation in the forest on Saturday evening.

As the DVF jawans entered the forested area, they were met with heavy gunfire from the Maoists, triggering an intense exchange of fire.

While details are still emerging, reports suggest that one Maoist was killed in the encounter. Additionally, a DVF jawan sustained bullet injuries to his left hand during the exchange.

The injured jawan received initial medical attention at the Baliguda Hospital before being airlifted to a Bhubaneswar hospital for specialized care.

Following the encounter, security forces have intensified combing operations in the Kamberikia forest to locate any remaining Maoists.