Baliguda, June 30:Two Maoists were gunned down in a fierce exchange of fire with security forces in the Indrisuga Hills under Gumukiya Panchayat in Baliguda block of Kandhamal district on Monday.

According to sources, the encounter took place after security forces received intelligence inputs regarding the presence of Maoists hiding in the dense forested region. Acting on the tip-off, a joint team comprising personnel from local police and specialized security units launched a combing operation in the area.

During the search operation, the Maoists opened fire on the advancing forces, prompting a retaliatory response. The gun battle, which lasted several hours, resulted in the deaths of two Maoists. Their identities are yet to be confirmed.

Security forces have recovered arms and ammunition from the site. The operation is still underway as forces continue to comb the forested terrain to flush out any remaining insurgents.

Officials have increased vigilance in the area, considering the possibility of more Maoists being present in the surrounding hills.

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