Bhubaneswar: Combing operation and patrolling launched by security forces were intensified in and around Chandaka forests near here today, following reports about movement of suspected Maoists in the area.

Combing operation had started yesterday by armed security personnel after local residents gave information about some movements in the area on Tuesday night, Commissioner of Police B K Sharma said.

Movement of suspected ultras in areas adjoining the forest was reported barely three days after posters bearing the name of CPI (Maoist) were put up in some places on Saturday warning that supporters of Sangh Parivar would be punished by the "revolutionaries".

Though the information received from the people about movement of a group in strange outfits was yet to be verified, strict vigil was maintained in the area as a precautionary measure, police said.

Combing operation was conducted in Chandaka, Andharua and nearby areas by security forces including personnel from the elite Special Operation Group (SOG), they said adding that police was yet to ascertain facts and "nothing has been confirmed so far".

Security measures were stepped up after residents of Rental Colony and nearby areas claimed to have seen a group of about dozen armed persons, police sources said.

According to locals, the group moving under suspicious circumstances slipped into forest when they were spotted, they said.

Meanwhile, police were also trying to ascertain the veracity of the posters.

Source : PTI