One killed in police firing in Kandhmal

Bhubaneswar, Sep 24 (UNI) In a fresh violence in the strife torn Kandhmal district of Orissa, one person was killed and several were wounded as tribal demonstrators clashed with the police to force release of two accuse, arrested in connection with communal riot recetly.

Police said one person was killed when they fired last night at an unruly mob, who stromed into the Raikia police station to take back the arrested persons.

Hundreds of tribals including women, armed with lethal weapons last night gheraoed the Raikia police station demanding release of the two villagers.

Police said the mob had made an abortive attempt to snatch the two from the police custody and when they were prevented from doing so by the CRPF on duty, they pelted stones at the guards.

When attempt to chase out the mob by opening fire in the air failed, the CRPF resorted to firing in which three tribals were seriously injured. One of them later succumbed to his injury on way to the MKCG Medical College and Hospital.

Two others critically injured in the polioce firing, had been admitted to the hospital.

Immediately after the incident senior police officials along with reinforcement rushed to the trouble spot to contain further violence.

The agitated tribals have blocked the road by felling trees, police added.

UNI DP PC SS1301