Malkangiri, Feb 26: In a fierce encounter between security forces and Maoists in the Indravati forest along the Malkangiri–Chhattisgarh border, two hardcore Maoists were killed.

According to officials, intelligence inputs had indicated the presence of several Maoists hiding in the dense forest. Acting on this information, security personnel launched a search operation, which led to a prolonged exchange of fire with the insurgents.

The operation concluded with the death of two Maoists. Security forces also recovered SLR and INSAS rifles, along with a significant quantity of explosives, from the encounter site.

Authorities have stated that the operation was part of ongoing efforts to curb Maoist activities in the region.