Bhubaneswar: If the need arises joint operations with neighbouring states of Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh would be intensified against Maoists with the deployment of additional forces, informed   Odisha DGP R P Sharma today after his visit to Maoist affected Malkangiri and Koraput districts.

This was Sharma’s maiden visit to these Maoist affected districts after assuming the office of the DGP.

“Joint operations against Maoists by Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and Chhattisgarh will be stepped up. More police camps will be set up to deal with the problem if the need so arises,” Sharma said.

He said the focus will be on proper coordination and cooperation between the forces of these States during joint operations.

The DGP said that influence of the Maoists has waned in the area with many Red rebels surrendering before the police and joining the mainstream.

While warning the rebels of being dealt with a firm hand for perpetrating violence he urged them to return to the mainstream.

The top cop visited police and BSF camps in the cut-off area of Chitrakonda apart from visiting the Gurupriya bridge site.

He held a closed-door meeting with senior police officials at the district headquarters.

The DGP also visited Koraput and held a meeting with senior officials to review Maoist situation in the district.