KATHMANDU: UCPN-Maoist on Monday abducted four UML cadres after a clash between the two sides in Ward No 2 of Hangpang VDC, Taplejung. The whereabouts of those abducted are still unknown. It has been reported they were also engaged in fierce gunfire with home made guns. A Maoist cadre was also injured in the clash. Those abducted were UML leaders--Nawaraj Yakso, Mohan Yakso and two other cadres. DSP Bimal Basnet said a police team was mobilised to the area and was on its way to the spot where the incident occurred.

There have been a number of clashes between the cadres of the two parties in different places of the district over a dispute between teachers and students in Dhungesanghu VDC of the district. The local parties, rights activists, journalists and local administration have intensified talks to solve the dispute however they are yet to bear fruit.