Three naxals killed in encounter in Gadchiroli

Nagpur, Aug 12 (UNI) At least three naxals were today killed in an encounter in the jungle, near village Shegaon, in Etapalli tehsil of Gadchiroli district, today morning, police said.

Police sources said five policemen were also slightly injured in the encounter. They have recovered arms, ammunition and explosives from the spot.

Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police Shirish Jain said several naxalites are likely to have sustained injuries during the encounter. They had escaped into the forest after killing a trader in village Pathadi on Thursday night.

He said acting on a tip-off, a police squad was sent to track them down. They were assisted by the Chhattisgarh police, who sent two teams from Kanker. There was a heavy exchange of fire from both the sides during the encounter. The naxalites numbered about 25 to 30.

Mr Jain said an ambulance had been taken to the spot, in which the injured policemen were treated.

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