Kandhamal SP Pinak Mishra said the exchange of fire took place when personnel from CRPF, SOG and District Voluntary Force (DVF) went to the place after getting information about movement of Maoists in the area last night.
"The villagers travelling in an auto-rickshaw were suddenly caught in crossfire. We have received information about the death of five persons. As the spot is located in a remote forest area we are yet to get detailed information," he said.
S N Murmu, Sub Divisional Police Officer, Baliguda - where the area lies - said three persons in the vehicle were also injured.
Meanwhile, locals blocked Rayagada-Phulbani State Highway protesting against the killing of innocent persons in the encounter.
You’ve reached your limit of {{free_limit}} free articles this month.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
Already subscribed? Log in
Subscribe to read the full story →
Smart Quarterly
₹900
3 Months
₹300/Month
Smart Essential
₹2,700
1 Year
₹225/Month
Super Saver
₹3,900
2 Years
₹162/Month
Renews automatically, cancel anytime
Here’s what’s included in our digital subscription plans
Exclusive premium stories online
Over 30 premium stories daily, handpicked by our editors


Complimentary Access to The New York Times
News, Games, Cooking, Audio, Wirecutter & The Athletic
Business Standard Epaper
Digital replica of our daily newspaper — with options to read, save, and share


Curated Newsletters
Insights on markets, finance, politics, tech, and more delivered to your inbox
Market Analysis & Investment Insights
In-depth market analysis & insights with access to The Smart Investor


Archives
Repository of articles and publications dating back to 1997
Ad-free Reading
Uninterrupted reading experience with no advertisements


Seamless Access Across All Devices
Access Business Standard across devices — mobile, tablet, or PC, via web or app
