Jharkhand: Maoists shoot dead five cops

Ranchi, June 14: Maoists have reportedly shot dead five policemen in Jharkhand's Seraikela. The incident took place at at Kukdu Bazar area of Seraikela this evening.

2 sub-inspectors and 3 jawans were shot dead by the a Maoist squad when then reached the weekly market at Kukdu Bazar for patrolling, said reports.

Some cops are also said to be injured.

Police officials, including the Superintendent of Police, have reached the spot and further investigation is underway. Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das has condemned the attack and said the "sacrifice of the policemen will not go in vain." Das also promised strict action against the Maoists.

"It is a very sad incident. I am very distraught. Naxals think they can demotivate our jawans through such incidents but our jawans' morale is high. Jharkhand government and people are with the bereaved families, at this hour," Jharkhand Chief Minister told ANI.

"I assure everyone that our jawans will definitely achieve our aim of a 'naxal free Jharkhand'. DGP and CRPF IG will visit the spot tomorrow, I have asked for a detailed report from the DGP," he added.

A few months ago, three Maoists were killed in Gumla in a special joint operation carried out by 209 CoBRA battalion of CRPF and Jharkhand police.