3 Maoists killed in encounter

Ongole, Andhra Pradesh, Jun 17 (UNI) Three CPI Maoists, including a woman, were killed in a police encounter today at Somidevipalli and Sangapet Villages at Nallamala Forest of Prakasam Distrtict, about 170 km from here.

Talking to reporters, District Superintedent of Police (SP) N Balasubramaniam identified the slain Naxals as Chakali Adeppa alias Varadi, Narayana Naik alias Shyam and Boya Swarna alias Deepa alias Rajitha.

Chakali Adeppa, Commander of Gandikota Dalam, was from Tallimadugula of Anantapur District while Narayana Naik, a member of Maddila Platoon, belonged to Kadigani Chelli Thanda village of Karnataka.

Boya Swarna of Panapalligunta Village of Anantapur Disrtrict, was the commander of Penna Ahobilam Dalam. Police recovered two .303 rifles, four kitbags and one Thapancha from the spot.

According to the police, a team of Naxals were found moving about in the forest when they were asked to surrender.

The Naxals allegedly opened fire prompting the police to retaliate.

The Naxals were in the age group of 22-25 years, Mr Balasubramaniam said Yesterday, a 46-year-old Matta Ravi Kumar alias Sridhar, state committee member of the CPI (Maoist), was killed in a police encounter in Pullalacheruvu Mandal of Prakasam District.

Following the encounters, police has stepped up security for MPs, MLAs and other VIPs in the district.

UNI XR/JRK JJ RL DS1620