IGP Western Range Prathap Reddy told media the incident took place around 5.30 pm.
The ANF team was on their regular combing operation, when they found Maoists hiding in the forest. “There were six men who opened fire first. In retaliation, the ANF police fired three rounds. The Maoists fled the scene and there were no casualties. The operation has continued,” the IGP said.
Punjalabetta residents, however, said they were not aware of any exchange of fire, but learnt about it from the television. The residents claimed that the ANF was concocting stories to strengthen Vittal Malekudiya's case as he from Kuthloor.
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