Bijapur, Jan 17: In a major operation against Maoist insurgents, two Maoists were killed in an encounter between security forces and Naxals on Saturday in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh, near the border area of Malkangiri.

According to sources, a joint operation involving the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), and Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was launched in the Maoist-affected area as part of the ongoing Kobra Jawan operation. The forces engaged in a gun battle with the Naxals, which led to the death of two Maoist militants.

Reports suggest that the top Maoist leader Papa Rao was present at the site during the encounter, although further details remain unclear. The gunfight is still ongoing, with security forces continuing their operation in the region.

The encounter comes as part of intensified efforts by security forces to combat Maoist insurgency in the region. Authorities are yet to confirm whether any further casualties or arrests have occurred.