Two Maoists killed in Kandhamal encounter; security forces intensify combing operation

Odisha moved closer to its goal of becoming Maoist-free after two Maoists were killed in an exchange of fire with security forces in the Nandabadi forest under Kandhamal district on Sunday.

Security personnel have continued intensive combing operations in the forest area on Monday following intelligence inputs about the possible presence of senior Maoist leaders.

Encounter in Forest Area

The operation was launched on Sunday after security forces received information about a Maoist group hiding in the Karada forest. An exchange of fire between the Maoists and security personnel lasted for over one and a half hours.

Reports indicated that several Maoists were killed in the encounter, while others retreated deeper into the forest.

The bodies of two deceased Maoists were recovered and taken to the Phulbani police headquarters. They have been identified as Yogesh and Ratna, both from Chhattisgarh.

According to reports, Yogesh was an Area Committee Member of the CPI (Maoist) KKBN division, while Ratna was a party member. Yogesh was also said to be the right-hand man of Shukru.

Search Intensified for Senior Leader

Security forces are conducting a detailed search operation amid suspicion that Shukru, a State Committee member of the CPI (Maoist), may be hiding in the forest.

Multiple Maoists were reportedly injured during the exchange of fire. The Special Operations Group (SOG) has cordoned off the entire forest area as part of the ongoing combing operation.

Some indications remaining most-wanted Maoists, including Nakul and Anwesh of the BGN division, might surrender if Shukru is killed or surrenders.

Cross-Border Maoist Movement Under Watch

Sources suggest that most Odisha-based Maoists have already surrendered. However, some Maoists from Chhattisgarh have reportedly been operating largely in the Kandhamal region. The Maoists killed in Sunday’s encounter were also said to be from Chhattisgarh.

Alos Read: Security forces, Maoists exchange fire in Kandhamal forest, Naxal casualties reported

With intensified operations underway in Chhattisgarh, security agencies suspect that Maoists may attempt to take shelter in Odisha.

The combing operation remains ongoing as security forces continue efforts to neutralise Maoist presence in the region.