11 cops killed in Naxal ambush in Chhattisgarh

At least 11 security personnel were killed and four hurt when Naxalites ambushed a 45-member patrol returning to Bhadrakali Base Camp at about 1830 hrs today in Bastar Division's Bijapur district bordering Andhra Pradesh, police said.

About 100 Maoists staged the ambush merely four km away from Bhadrakali Police Station. A grain-laden tractor trolley was helping convey the personnel from Bhopalpatnam back to the camp, police said.

According to reports reaching the state police headquarters, the deceased comprised personnel of the Chhattisgarh Armed Force (CAF) and the district police.

As their vehicle neared Meltacheru, the ultras, concealed behind trees, opened indiscriminate fire at the personnel who returned fire, neutralising four rebels.

Additional reinforcements were rushed to the spot.

Chief Minister Raman Singh held an emergency meeting with Home Minister Nankiram Kanwar, Director General of Police Anil Navaney, Chief Secretary P Joy Oommen and other top officials at his residence here to take stock of the situation.

NNN