High alert sounded in entire state

Hyderabad, Aug 19 (UNI) A high alert has been sounded in Andhra Pradesh following the attack on Atmakur police station in Nalgonda District last night in which three unarmed policemen were killed by Maoists.

According to police, State Home Minister K Jana Reddy and top police officials, including Director General Swaranjit Sen and Intelligence Chief Aravinda Rao, have rushed to the spot.

A group of 10 to 12 armed Maoists attacked Atmakur, tied up SI Chand Pasha, ASI Muneeruddin, Constable Lingaiah and shot them from close range. Constable Kareem was seriously injured in the firing.

The injured constable was shifted to Hyderabad for treatment.

Borders have been sealed in the district and combing operations intensifted there and in surrounding districts to track down naxals.

Ex-gratia of Rs nine lakh each has been announced for the next of kin of the deceased police personnel.

Mr Jana Reddy, while condemning the incident, described it as a cowardly act by Maoists.

Mr Sen said Maoists could not dictate terms by senseless acts.

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