Security forces, Maoists exchange fire in Odisha forest

Security forces and Maoist ultras today exchanged fire at Kalitota forest bordering Kandhamal and Rayagada district in Odisha, the police said.

The encounter took place when a joint combing operation was being conducted by the Rayagada and Kandhamal police in the forest in the Kotagarh police station area, Kandhamal superintendent of police (SP) K V Singh said.

The ultras first opened fire on the security personnel during the operation, the SP said adding that no casualty or injury report was received.

The combing operation would continue, he said.