Odisha Police Neutralize Two Maoists in Kandhamal District

In a major operation, security forces engaged in a gun battle with Maoists within the Kandhamal forest of Odisha, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The incident marks a significant success in combating left-wing extremism. The slain Maoists were identified as Manku, an ACM cadre, and Chandan, both affiliated with the banned CPI (Maoist) group. Police initiated a special operation at noon, following intelligence reports that led them to the Maoist hideout. The ensuing firefight resulted in the death of Manku and Chandan. The authorities have retrieved a cache of weapons and equipment from the encounter site, including a rifle, revolver, ammunition, a walkie-talkie, and other Maoist-related items. While the bodies have been recovered, reports indicate that some Maoists managed to escape. Security forces have expanded their search operations in the area to locate any remaining insurgents.