24 Orissa Policemen killed in Malkanagiri, as Maoists blow up Van

Less than a month after the daring ambush made by the Maoists in Balimela Reservoir, that killed 38 Greyhound and Orissa security personnel, the Maoists blew up the anti-landmine van carrying the police personnel. At least 24 cops including two Inspectors are feared dead in the gruesome incident. The cops were engaged in landmine cleaning operation when the blast took place near MV-126 in Malkangiri.

The incident sent shock wave across the Malkangiri district and Orissa. The CM has condemned the incident and announced a compensation of Rs. 4 lakh each for each bereaved family. In addition, at least one member from each family will get a government job.

A high level delegation is leaving for Malkangiri to take stock of the situation. The Orissa government has called in an emergency meeting of high profile officials to discuss the situation in Malkangiri and how the deal with the Naxal menace. According to the latest reports, fierce encounter is still going on between the security personnel and naxalites.