Kannur: Two Maoists reportedly suffered injuries in a gun battle with a police patrolling party in Karikottakari here on Tuesday. 

As per the latest reports, the Maoists retreated to the forest, taking the injured. A team led by Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) DIG Putta Vimaladitya has launched a search operation inside the forest. 

The DIG said that after the Maoists opened fire, the team of police patrolling party responded in kind.

The DIG added that the fire exchange took place on Monday morning, and despite the police firing back, the eight-member Maoist group managed to escape.

Meanwhile, Tamil Nadu Police's Crime Branch, Intelligence units and Forest Department have also launched a search operation in Nilagiri.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges authorities face in dealing with Maoist activities, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and coordinated efforts to maintain law and order in the region