Five security men killed in Maoist clash

NEW DELHI/RAIPUR: Five security personnel and three Maoists were killed when around 100 armed Maoists attacked forces conducting search operation in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district on Sunday morning.

Chhattisgarh director-general of police Vishwa Ranjan said that those killed were three BSF men, including a head constable and two constables, one belonging to the DF and an SPO.

“It was a major ambush but our jawans fought bravely and fiercely...Maoists were in large numbers and estimated to be over 100,” inspector-general of police J Longkumer said.

Additional director-general of police Ramniwas said at least three Maoists are also believed to have been killed in the exchange of fire. Maoists fired as soon as the security personnel reached the forests near Bhuski village killing five of them, he said. The security forces retaliated, forcing the outlaws to flee.

He said the police who searched the area where the exchange of fire took place came across a pool of blood indicating there could be many casualties on the part of Naxals as well.

However, the police were able to spot only three bodies being taken away by Maoists.

A special police officer sustained a bullet wound in his leg and has been admitted to hospital.

Superintendent of Police, Kanker, Ajay Yadav said the Naxals have taken away arms of the five security personnel after killing them. He said additional police force has been deployed in the area following the incident.

A chopper was sent to the attack site for rescue operations and evacuating an injured trooper. The attack took place just a few hours before forest minister Vikram Usendi ‘s visit to the area.