Rebels, security forces clash in Ilam

There have been reports of heavy clashes between the Maoist rebels and security forces at Barbote area in the eastern district of Ilam Wednesday.

According to reports, the clash took place when the Maoists attacked a team of security personnel that was returning to its base after clearing the road obstructions set up by the rebels at Puwakhola along the Mechi highway in eastern Nepal.

Security sources in Kathmandu confirmed the incident and said skirmishes had taken place Wednesday afternoon. They said they were still awaiting the details.

Meanwhile, some radio reports have quoted Brigade commissar Parwana of the Maoist’s seventh brigade in Mechi and Koshi zones, as saying that they had lost half a dozen of their comrades during the two-way gun battle. He also claimed that at least 20 security personnel were killed during the clashes and that the rebels were able to seize some automatic weapons from the security personnel.

The Maoists’ claim is, however, yet to be verified independently.

Nepal F. M., a Kathmandu-based private radio station, quoted Parwana as saying that at least 20 security personnel were in the Maoist captivity.

The situation is still unclear but sources in eastern town of Biratnagar have said up to 50 security personnel were out of contact since Wednesday afternoon. Their whereabouts remain unknown.

The authorities are yet to comment on the incident.

nepalnews.com by Jan 19 05 Sphere: Related Content