Security forces combing encounter area in Midnapore

“We suspect some Maoists might be hiding in the forest after yesterday’s encounter,” the sources said.

The police,meanwhile,recovered the bullet-riddled body of a CPI(M) deserter Niranjan Mahato from Pirjakali near Salboni late last night.

“We suspect the hand of Maoists in Mahato’s killing,” the sources said.

Twelve Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the area on Wednesday.