India, Dec. 25 -- Two Maoists carrying a combined reward of Rs.23.65 lakh were killed in an encounter with Special Operations Group of Odisha police in Gumma Forest under Belghar police station of Kandhamal district on Wednesday.

Acting on specific intelligence from the Special Intelligence Wing regarding the presence of two Maoists in the forest area, a mobile team from the Special Operations Group (SOG) stationed at Kotgadh was mobilised to respond. The team, comprising local personnel, was dispatched to the location.

Upon reaching the spot, the security forces came under fire from the Maoists, who were dressed in civilian clothes. In the ensuing exchange of fire, both Maoists were killed.

Security personnel recovered one revolver, o...