Three top Maoist operatives killed in encounter in Odisha’s Malkangiri

In a major breakthrough for the security forces, three top Maoist operatives were gunned down in an intense encounter in the Maradpalli forest area near the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border in Malkangiri district. The exchange of fire took place between the Maoists and a joint team of security personnel, during which three senior Maoist leaders were neutralised. 

The deceased Maoists have been identified as Aruna, a top Maoist leader, Gajarala Ravi alias Uday, a Central Committee cadre, and Amit Bordar, Area Committee Member (ACM) from the Sitaram area.

Security forces suspect that more Maoists could be hiding in the dense forest, and combing operations are still underway. The area remains tense as intermittent gunfire continues to be reported. Officials have yet to release full details regarding the seized arms or any casualties among security forces.

Worth mentioning, on June 13, Police arrested two dreaded Maoists — Kesaka Wasi and Sanu Kunjam — after a brief exchange of fire near Sodiguda–Tenguliguda forests. Both were identified as Area Committee members affiliated with Andhra–Odisha belt operations. 

A cache including a pistol, ammunition, electric detonators, and radio devices was recovered from their possession.