Bhadrak: A notorious criminal was injured in a police encounter in Odisha's Bhadrak district late on Wednesday night.

The incident took place in the Nuasahi area under the Bhadrak Rural police limits. According to reports, the accused, identified as Prafulla Mallik, was planning a robbery along with an associate when the police received information about their activities and conducted a raid.

During the operation, Prafulla opened fire at the police team and attempted to escape. In retaliation, the police fired at him, resulting in a bullet injury to his right leg.

The injured criminal was immediately taken to the District Headquarters Hospital in Bhadrak for treatment. His associate, however, managed to flee the spot and is currently absconding.

Police said that Prafulla Mallik is a history-sheeter with several criminal cases registered against him at various police stations in Bhadrak and Balasore districts.