Himalayan News Service

Phidim, January 22:

The RNA has launched a massive aerial patrol in the northern parts of Panchthar district from Saturday following the Wednesday’s clash with the Maoists on Ilam-Phidim section of Mechi Highway. The Maoists had attacked security forces while they were returning after removing a bomb placed on the Puwakhola bridge on the Ilam-Phidim section of the Mechi Highway.

An RNA official at the Batuk Dal Battalion, Phidim, said the RNA began the aerial patrol after they received information that the Maoists involved in the attack were heading for Ludrupa and Sidin areas of Panchthar. Two helicopters have been carrying out the patrol, the source said adding, security forces from Itahari are also involved in the action.