11 CISF jawans got killed in an attack by Maoist at Nalco mine, Asia’s largest bauxite mine in Orissa’s Koraput district on Sunday night. Seven Maoists are also reported killed in the strike so far.

It is for the first time that a corporate installation comes under attack by Maoists in Orissa. Maoists have taken over the hill top bauxite mines and nearly 100 miners have reportedly been held hostage. Sanjeev Panda deputy inspector general of police (south-west range) told that a heavy exchange of fire between security forces and Maoists broke out following the attack by a large number of Maoists on Hiltop bauxite mines under Kukudiguma police station. There are reports that 40 to 60 Maoists may have been involved in the attack, but there is no official confirmation for this yet.

Attack took place around 9.00 PM and the Maoists surrounded the Nalco canteen and occupied strategic locations in groups. About 12 CISF personnel were inside the canteen at this time. Lots of employees were also initially feared trapped inside.

Latest reports show that the Maoists have fled the mines and the employees are safe. Additional security forces have been rushed to the site.