Amaravati: Seven Maoists were killed in an exchange of fire with security forces at Maredumilli, Andhra Pradesh, on Wednesday, officials confirmed.

AP Intelligence ADG Mahesh Chandra Laddha said in a press conference, “In continuation with Tuesday's operation, seven Maoists have died until now, according to information received from the field.” He added that three women Maoists were among the dead, while identification of others is ongoing.

One of the deceased has been identified as Meturi Jokha Rao alias Shankar, a native of Srikakulam. Laddha said Shankar was in-charge of the Andhra-Odisha Border (AOB) and specialised in technical operations, arms manufacturing, and communications, according to preliminary information.

Top Naxal cadres neutralised on Tuesday

This fresh encounter comes just a day after top Naxalite commander Madvi Hidma, one of the most wanted Maoist leaders accused of masterminding major attacks over the past two decades, was shot dead in a joint operation in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh. The Chhattisgarh Police termed Hidma’s killing as the “last nail in the coffin” of the Maoist insurgency.

Hidma (51), his wife Madkam Raje, and four other Maoists were killed in the Maredumilli forest in Alluri Sitaramaraju district, a senior officer from Bastar confirmed.

Security forces remain on high alert as combing operations continue in the area.