Angul: Two robbers from Maharashtra were injured in an encounter with police near Handapa in Odisha's Angul district while the cops were pursuing suspects involved in a high-value gold and silver robbery at a refinery in Talcher.

The injured accused have been identified as Sachin Gajge and Prakash Madane. Sachin sustained a bullet injury to his right leg, while Prakash was shot in his left leg during the exchange of fire. After receiving preliminary treatment at a local hospital, both were shifted to SCB Medical College and Hospital in Cuttack.

According to police sources, a gang of five criminals looted a large quantity of gold and silver from Sri Balaji Gold Refinery at Hatatota Chhak in Talcher on Wednesday night and fled the scene. Following a complaint lodged by the refinery owner, police launched an intensive investigation and search operation to recover the stolen valuables and apprehend the accused.

During the operation near Handapa, police tracked down the suspects. The accused opened fire on the police team in an attempt to escape. In retaliation, police fired back, resulting in injuries to two of the suspects.

Police have so far arrested four accused, including the two injured men. All four are from Maharashtra. Efforts are underway to trace and arrest the fifth member of the gang, who remains absconding.

During the operation, police also seized two country-made firearms and a car used by the accused. Police have registered a case and intensified the investigation to recover the looted gold and silver and uncover further details related to the crime.