3 Maoists killed in encounter

Banka (Bihar), Feb 26 (PTI) Three Maoists were shotdead today in an encounter with the security forces atKatoria in Bihar''s Banka district, a police officer said.

"Acting on a tip off, the security forces comprisingCRPF and SAP jawans surrounded a house in Majhidih villagewhere about a dozen Maoists were hiding," ActingSuperintendent of Police (SP) B K Das said.

Upon being asked to surrender, Maoist cadre openedfire on the security forces to retaliate.

The encounter between the security forces and theultras was still going on, Das said.

The security forces had earlier in the day arresteda Maoist cadre, identified as Devan Tuddu, a native ofKaithavaran village when he was trying to escape, he said. PTICOR KDK AMD