DARJEELING: The combing operation by police to nab Gorkha Janmukti Morcha chief Bimal Gurung continued for the second consecutive day today in the forest areas near Darjeeling.
A sub-inspector was killed and four other policemen were injured yesterday during the search operation when alleged supporters of Gurung fired at them.
The GJM claimed three of its supporters were also killed in police firing. The police, however, did not comment on this.
A senior police official today said the situation in the hills was largely normal and the traffic movement smooth.
Gurung has been missing since August after the West Bengal government lodged cases against him under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for his alleged involvement in several bomb blasts in Darjeeling and adjoining areas.
The exchange of fire yesterday was the first incident of violence after the 104-day-indefinite shutdown in the hills was called off on September 26 by Gurung following an appeal by Union home minister Rajnath Singh.
The GJM is an ally of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA).