One left wing extremists was killed when security forces and naxalites exchanged fire in Kalahandi district on Sunday.
Based on intelligence input, District Voluntary Force, a special constabulary unit of the Odisha Police engaged in anti-Maoist operations, had made a move towards Kegaon under Golamunda Police Station area on late Saturday evening.
Near Chura Pahad area, security forces were fired upon by a group of Left ultras and in retaliation DVF personnel also returned fire, said Y. K Jethwa, Inspector General (South-West).
Mr. Jethwa said one naxalite was found to be dead while exchange of fire was still continuing till evening of Sunday. One Insas rifle was recovered from the spot. Kalahandi police had launched combing operation following the encounter with naxalites.
During past one year, left wing extremists were found to be active in Kalahandi district which shares border with Nuapada and Bolangir districts which are already affected by naxal violence.
