RANCHI: Suspected Maoists attacked a police patrolling party injuring two jawans at Itkhori in Chatra district, 150km from here, on Wednesday night. The rebels escaped taking advantage of the dark cover after around 30-minute encounter with the police. "Initial reports say that two jawans have sustained injuries. Forces have been rushed to the site," said Bokaro zone IG, Tadasha Mishra.

The condition of the injured jawans could not be known. "I will be able to give information only after sometime," said Hazaribag DIG PR Das adding, "I am on my way to the spot."

Sources said a group of policemen on duty were going towards Itkhori block from famous Bhadrakali temple in a gypsy when suspected rebels hiding in ambush opened fire at them. The policemen replied to the gunshots forcing them to retreat.

Itkhori, around 40km from Chatra town, lies in Maoist-dominated Chatra-Hazaribag border. The district police sent central paramilitary forces to the spot to dominate. A combing and search operation has been launched.

Source: TOI