6 Maoists killed by security forces in Bihar

Six Maoists were killed and 70 landmines destroyed by security forces in Panchrukhia forest, bordering Bihar's Gaya and Aurangabad districts, a top Central Reserve Police Force official said on Monday.

As many as six ultras have been killed and scores of others injured in heavy firing between the Maoists and forces since Saturday, CRPF Deputy Inspector General Umesh Kumar said.

The bodies of the ultras were yet to be recovered, he said.

The forces also destroyed 70 landmines during search and combing operations, Kumar said.

A CRPF jawan was also killed and six others injured in the encounter with the ultras, the CRPF DIG added.

The security forces made advances into the forest on Monday -- on the third day of the search -- and heavy exchange of fire took place between them and the Moaists, Kumar said.