Encounter: Security forces kill 5 Maoists at Andhra-Odisha border

Malkangiri (Odisha) Jan 5: At least five Maoists are reported to have been killed in an encounter with security personnel in Malkangiri district of South Odisha in the early hours of Monday, according to police. Reports said Andhra Pradesh Greyhound jawans, Special Operation Group (SOG) personnel of Odisha police, CRPF and BSF had launched the joint anti-Maoist operation Sunday night. Fierce exchange of fire was on between the rebels-held village and the security personnel about 150 km from the district headquarters, according to Malkangiri superintendent of police M. Mohapatra. Reports said top Maoist leader Ramakrishna had dodged and escaped during the combing operation.