Maoists attack security camp; 24 jawans killed

24 Jawans were killed when armed Maoists attacked a paramilitary force camp at Sildha in West Midnapore district on Monday evening. Top police sources said at least 24 Eastern Frontier Rifles (EFR) jawans were killed in the attack which took place around 5.30 pm. "According to information available here, nine jawans were burnt to death and five others were shot dead. We are yet to get the detailed figure of the casualty," a source said.
District Magistrate N S Nigam said at least 50 Maoists on 25 motorcycles and armed with sophisticated weapons swooped down on the camp. "There were 51 EFR jawans and officers in the camp when the attack took place," IGP (Law and Order) S Purakayastha said. Nigam said the Maoists also planted landmines on the entire stretch of the road leading to the camp. Meanwhile, Maoist leader Kishenji claimed responsibility for the attack.