Maoist factions clash in Nepal

KATHMANDU: Two factions of Nepal's Maoist rebels clashed in a village in the country's south, the fiercest fighting since the rebels signed a ceasefire agreement with the government.

Maoist cadres and Janatrantrik Terai Mukti Morcha (JTMM) militants exchanged fire for about two hours in Itatar VDC in Siraha, 260 km south of Kathmandu, yesterday, police sources said. However, there were no reports of casualty on either side though hundreds of bullets were fired during the encounter.

The encounter took place when a district level meeting of the JTMM was in progress. The Siraha coordinator of JTMM Shyam claimed the clash erupted after hundreds of Maoists opened fire at JTMM cadres while they were holding the meeting.

However, Maoist district secretary, Abinash claimed the JTMM men first opened fire at Maoist cadres who were on a regular patrol near the Nepal-India border as part of their drive against dacoits in the border areas.

The Maoists declared a war against the JTMM headed by Jai Krishna Goit after its cadres killed two Maoist guerillas in Saptari. Goit left the Maoist party and formed the JTMM two years ago.