India steps up anti-Maoist operations after 22 policemen killed

Security forces intensify operations against left-wing rebels after they killed 22 policemen in an ambush last week.

Indian security forces have stepped up operations against ultra left-wing fighters deep in the forests of a mineral-rich central state after they killed 22 policemen in an ambush over the weekend, a top police officer said. At least 30 other members of the security forces were wounded in the four-hour gun battle with Maoist rebels that took place in Chhattisgarh state on Saturday, the deadliest ambush of its kind in four years. “The operation will be intensified,” said Om Prakash Pal, the deputy inspector general of police, who is leading the fight against the rebels in Chhattisgarh, on Monday.