A naxal has been killed in an exchange of fire between the ultras and security forces at the Kakerpua area under Baliguda of Kandhamal district. The deceased naxal has been identified as Dasru, a DCM member of the KKBN division.
Senior police officials informed that Dasru hailed from Chhatisgarh and carried a reward of Rs 5 lakh. He was involved in many civilian killings, attacks on security forces, and arson incidents. He was wanted in more than 20 cases in Kandhamal and Boudh districts.
As per initial reports, a police team of Kandhmal DVF commandos, led by a SOG officer conducted a combing operation at the Kakerpua area after getting input regarding the presence of armed Maoist cadres on Saturday.
The team came under fire by the Naxals and one commando sustained a bullet injury on his hand in the firing. The police team retaliated and tactically advanced through the area by resorting to controlled firing.
Taking advantage of the darkness, the Naxals escaped. During the search of the area, a body along with one rifle and other materials were recovered from the spot. During verification, it was ascertained that the deceased Naxal was Dasru.
Meanwhile, several teams are carrying out combing operations at the suspected hideouts and operations have been intensified in the area.