12 CPI (Maoist) ultras inujured, 15 powerful landmines recovered

Chatra, Jharkhand, Jan 31 (UNI) At least 12 CPI (Maoist) ultras were injured in an encounter with security forces when hundreds of underground militants ambushed a patrol party last night in this district of Jharkhand.

This morning police recovered 15 powerful landmines each weighing from 50 kg to 80 kg planted near Satbahini village near Satbahini river under Pratapgarh police station, Superintendent of Police Kamlesh Kumar said.

Narrating the incident, the SP said that when a group of paramilitary force and state police jawans after raids at certain places were returning last night, about 400 naxalits hiding in the jungles near the village opened indiscriminate fire forcing the latter to retaliate.

The ultras exploded 22 landmines and fired 1000 rounds, while the forces used 500 rounds during the encounter that lasted the whole night, he said.

There were no injuries to the security personnel, while more than 12 ultras were injured, Mr Kumar said adding they, however, managed to escape.

Security forces were on high alert in the area and search operations were on, he said.

UNI