Magisterial inquiry ordered in encounter of suspected Naxals

A magisterial probe has been ordered into an encounter between security forces and Naxalites early this year in Chhattisgarh's Kanker district, in which two suspected cadres were killed.

Kanker Collector Alarmelmangai D has ordered the magisterial enquiry headed by Sub-Divisional Magistrate of Antagarh to investigate the encounter near Michewada Hills around two months back, an official said.

On January 21, a police patrol party led by Station House Officer Koyalibeda, Rakesh Rathore was on a combing operation near Michewada hills when around 15 armed rebels, including Naxal commander Kamlakar opened indiscriminate firing on them.

However, they fled into dense forests following an intense retaliation from the patrol party.

After the gunfight, body of two Naxals were recovered from the spot. Besides, three muzzle loading guns, couple of detonators and empty cartridges were also seized from the encounter site, the official said.

During investigation, the deceased were identified as Somaruram Komra and Tulsingh, natives of Matnar village.

The investigation will be based on several points including background of the incident, firing from rebel side and retaliatory action by police personnel, he said.

The probe report will be submitted within a month.