1 Maoist killed, 1 injured in encounter with security forces

A Maoist was killed and another injured during an encounter with the security forces in Palamau district, police said today.
The encounter took place in Jhunjhuna jungle under the jurisdiction of Naodiha Police station yesterday evening, the police said, adding, four firearms and a large quantity of ammunition were recovered from the spot.
The Maoists attacked the security forces, who returned the fire and during the Maoist was killed during the encounter, a police officer said.
Another Maoist, a 15-year-old girl, suffered splinter injuries, said Superintendent of Police Indrajeet Mahatha.
Mahatha, who led the operation, said the injured girl has been rescued and shifted to a hospital.

The injured girl was scared and she was hiding behind bushes while others sneaked into the jungle, he said.

The girl told police that she had joined the Naxal outfit out of poverty, Mahatha said, adding, she would be rehabilitated.
She also told police that three to four other Naxals fled after they received bullet injuries, the SP said.
A search operation has been launched to track down the Maoists, he added.