Five killed in crossfire between Odisha security forces and Maoists

At least five people, including one child, were killed after getting caught in a crossfire between security personnel and Maoists in Kandhamal district of Odisha, a police officer said on Saturday.

The incident took place on Friday night at Kurtumgarh village under Tumudibandh police station limits.

"Five villagers including two women, one minor and two men were killed during the gun battle with the Maoists," said Kandhamal district Superintendent of Police Pinak Mishra.

The minor was a 13-year-old boy.

An auto-rickshaw carrying passengers got caught in the crossfire resulting in so many casualties, Mishra said.

"After we received intelligence inputs about the presence of Maoists, the security personnel rushed to the spot and launched a combing operation on Friday night. But, the unfortunate incident took place during the crossfire," he said.

He said the families of the deceased would be given adequate compensation.

Meanwhile, the villagers have blocked the road and staged a demonstration demanding Rs 50 lakh compensation to the families of the deceased.