Bhubaneswar: An exchange of gunfire shook the tranquility of the Barakote area within the Sunabeda Sanctuary in Odisha’s Nuapada district during the early hours of Friday, as CRPF personnel clashed with outlawed Maoists.
The confrontation unfolded after CRPF jawans conducted a combing operation inside the forest late Thursday night, aiming to dismantle a Maoist camp believed to be lurking in the dense foliage. However, as the jawans made their way back to their camp in Barakote, they encountered unexpected resistance from the outlawed red rebels near Barkote Ghat. In a swift response, both sides exchanged gunfire, leading to a brief but intense gun battle amidst the thick forest cover.
As the sun began to rise, the combing operation persisted, with CRPF personnel determined to root out any remaining threats within the sanctuary’s confines. Fortunately, no injuries were reported from either side in the exchange of gunfire, providing a small relief amidst the tense situation.
Senior CRPF and district administration officials swiftly mobilized to the scene, seeking to assess the aftermath of the skirmish and ensure the safety and security of all involved. With tensions still lingering in the air, their presence was crucial in maintaining order and coordinating further actions.
In the wake of the incident, CRPF personnel intensified their efforts, initiating a thorough search operation at the encounter site. With the sanctuary’s serene landscape transformed into a battleground, the hunt for any remnants of the Maoist presence continued, underscoring the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in combating insurgency in the region.
