Balasore, Sept 4: A wanted criminal identified as Lokesh Singh was injured in a police encounter in Balasore district late Thursday night.

According to police, the encounter took place near Ada Chhak under Simulia police station limits. Lokesh allegedly opened fire at the police team when he was intercepted. The police reportedly retaliated in self-defence.

Lokesh sustained a bullet injury to his left leg and was subsequently shifted to Bhadrak Medical College and Hospital for treatment.

The Simulia police conducted the operation in the Ada area. Police sources said Lokesh was allegedly involved in several criminal activities, including robbery.

Balasore Superintendent of Police (SP) provided information about the encounter. Further investigation is underway, and police are conducting searches in connection with the case.