Sambalpur, Jun 8: Security forces have ramped up their efforts in Sambalpur, Odisha, following reports of Maoist activity near the borders of Sonepur and Boudh districts.

Based on intelligence inputs, a joint operation involving Odisha police and four companies of the Special Operations Group (SOG) has been underway since Friday.

Sources indicate that Maoist cadres from Chhattisgarh have fled and possibly entered the Sambalpur region.

On May 28, suspicious movements were reported near Thengaradham forest at the Sonepur-Sambalpur border, prompting authorities to heighten surveillance. Police subsequently set up checkpoints at Guzasulia village and Meghanad road, detaining eight villagers for questioning before releasing them later.

Officials suspect that Maoists have moved from Ulunta in Sonepur towards the Charamal police station area in Sambalpur.

A combing operation is being conducted near Sunamudi village and the protected forest of Charagad, where authorities believe over 50 Maoists may be hiding.

Police are utilising drone cameras to scan the terrain and monitor movements in the dense forests.

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