India: Security forces kill five Maoist rebels

By Ahmad Adil

CHANDIGARH, India

Five Maoist rebels were killed early Tuesday by security forces in India’s Jharkhand state, officials said.

In a statement, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) said five bodies were recovered after an encounter took place between the security forces and Maoists in Rotkatoli Village.

"No injury/loss of own troops reported. Search is going on," the CRPF said, adding they have recovered weapons as well.

Maoist rebels have been fighting for more than three decades in eastern and central India for what they describe as the rights of tribal people in the region.

Local media reported that Indian security forces had launched a special operation in the area.

"In the early hours on Tuesday, security forces comprising the Central Reserve Police Force's 209 CoBRA battalion and Jharkhand Police launched a special operation to target Naxals in the areas," news agency ANI said, referring to another name for Maoists.