Keonjhar: A notorious criminal was injured in a police encounter during a raid conducted by Keonjhar Sadar Police in the early hours of Tuesday.

The accused, identified as Prabhat Mallik, is allegedly involved in more than 40 cases of dacoity, theft and other criminal offences, police said. Mallik had confessed to his involvement in an armed robbery case involving loot of ₹8.18 lakh.

Police said the accused was taken to the Mahuldiha forest area for the recovery of cash and other items hidden after the robbery. During the operation, Mallik reportedly pulled out a country-made firearm and opened fire at the police team.

In response, police fired in self-defence, injuring the accused. He was subsequently overpowered and shifted to a hospital for treatment.

Police seized a country-made gun and cash linked to the robbery from the spot. A fresh case has been registered against the accused under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) and the Arms Act.

Further investigation into the incident is underway.