Kathmandu, November 25:

Journalists and rights activists today secured the release of the RNA soldier Pyuth Sudhir BK, who was abducted by the Maoists on November 22. BK was later handed over to the RNA’s Shamsher Dal Battalion at the district headquarters. BK, who hails from Chitwan, was abducted by the Maoists from Gaura bazaar. BK was released on the joint initiative of FNJ Dadeldhura chapter chairman Chhatra Saud, FNJ central vice-chairman DR Pant, an INSEC representative, journalists and rights activists. Another RNA soldier, Pyuth Dilli Gautam, who was abducted along with BK, was able to run away from Maoists’ captivity.

A report from Tanahun said security personnel and the Maoists exchanged fire at Syangja district’s Chitrebhanjyang VDC today. The security team on patrol retaliated after the Maoists started shooting at them, said security sources in Tanahun. The security situation has normalised after the incident, they said. The incident site is constantly patrolled by chopper, locals at Damauli said. According to sources, the duel lasted for 15 minutes. No casualties have been reported on either side. Meanwhile, Maoists held a truck carrying 10.5 tons of rice at Ratomate VDC on Hetaunda-Birgunj section of Mahendra highway yesterday and released the vehicle today after seizing the entire quantity of rice.