Woman Maoist killed in encounter, another woman injured

A woman Maoist was killed in an encounter while a tribal woman was injured getting caught in the crossfire in a forest on Koraput-Rayagada district border today, police said.
An anti-Maoist operation was launched in Lelari village under Laxmipur block on Koraput-Rayagada border yesterday and early today when security personnel spotted a group of Maoists.
"Seeing our men, the Maoists opened fire and we retaliated. A woman Maoist was killed in the exchange of fire. We are trying to ascertain her identity," Sub-Divisional Police Officer of Laxmipur, Hemant Padhi, said.
The injured village woman, identified as Malla Miniaka, was passing through the forest at the time of the gun-battle and got caught in the crossfire, Padhi said.

"She received minor injury on her neck and was admitted at Laxmipur hospital. Her condition is stable," the SDPO said.
Combing operations were intensified in the area, he said.