Gun Battle in Odisha's Kandhamal Leads to Discovery of Explosives

A gun battle erupted between security forces and Maoists in Odisha's Kandhamal district. The police launched an operation based on intelligence about Naxal activity. During the firefight, security personnel uncovered a Naxal camp containing explosive devices and other items. The search continues as some Naxals fled the scene.

A gun battle erupted on Wednesday between security forces and Maoist insurgents in Odisha's Kandhamal district, leading to the discovery of several explosive devices, according to police sources.

The confrontation unfolded after police initiated a targeted operation following intelligence on Naxal activity in the Manik Saru hills, close to the Kandhamal-Kalahandi border. At approximately 12:15 pm, security forces engaged with armed Naxals, hidden in tents within the dense forest under the jurisdiction of the Baliguda police station, resulting in an exchange of gunfire, police reported.

A subsequent search of the area revealed a Naxal camp and a collection of daily-use items and five large bags. One bag was found to contain detonators and other components for improvised explosive devices (IEDs), while the other four bags are being opened with strict safety protocols, police noted. Although 4-5 armed Naxals managed to escape, utilizing the dense forest and adverse weather conditions to their advantage, security forces have intensified search operations in the locality.

(With inputs from agencies.)