Landmine blast in Orissa, close shave for CRPF personnel

The blast occurred in Kalimela during a bandh called by Maoists to protest against alleged excesses by security forces.

At least 17 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel had a narrow escape on Monday when a landmine blast was triggered by the Maoists seconds after a CRPF vehicle crossed the area, officials said.

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The blast occurred in Kalimela area during a bandh called by the Maoists to protest against alleged excesses by security forces in neighbouring Andhra Pradesh as part of their anti-Naxal drive, they said.

The Maoists also blocked traffic on important roads in Motu and Kalimela areas during the bandh called by Malkangiri naxal division.

Shops, business establishments and commercial centres remained closed and normal life was affected in Naxal-affected areas of the district during the bandh, they said.

The situation remained by and large peaceful and a strict vigil is being maintained in a bid to prevent any major incident, they added.