Security forces killed five Maoists in a major encounter in Odisha’s Kandhamal district. Officials confirmed that one of the deceased was a woman. The forces also seized weapons and communication equipment from the spot.
Police received specific intelligence about Maoist movement in the Gumma forest area. Following this input, district police and special forces launched a joint combing operation in the region. During the search, the team spotted a group of armed Maoists.
Security personnel asked the Maoists to surrender. Instead, the Maoists opened fire. In response, the forces returned fire to protect themselves. The exchange lasted for some time and ended with five Maoists dead at the encounter site.
After the firing stopped, the forces searched the area thoroughly. They recovered a revolver, a .303 rifle, and a walkie-talkie set. Officials said the seized items indicated active Maoist presence in the forest belt.
Senior police officers stated that the operation formed part of ongoing anti-Maoist efforts. The Odisha–Chhattisgarh border region remains sensitive due to frequent extremist activity. Therefore, the forces have intensified search operations in nearby areas to track any remaining Maoists.
Authorities said their priority is to restore peace and strengthen security in Maoist-affected districts. Police teams are verifying the identities of the deceased. Officials will share more details after completing the investigation.
