At least four Maoists, including a regional-level leader, were killed in a security action at Belbari area in the eastern district of Morang on Saturday.

Reports quoting the Eastern Pritana (divisional headquarters) of the Royal Nepalese Army (RNA) said that clash erupted after a group of Maoists lobbed hand grenades at a security patrol at Limbu Chowk of Belbari this afternoon.

Three of the four Maoists killed in the security action have been identified as Mohan Khanal, Purna Shrestha and Bidur Limbu. Hand grenades, one motorcycle and a bicycle were recovered from the dead rebels, according to the army.

No casualties were reported on the security side, reports added.

The incident comes at a time the three-month long unilateral ceasefire declared by the CPN (Maoist) early last month is still in effect.