Reports coming in say that at least seven policemen were injured in a clash with Maoist insurgents in Banepa, Kavre district, Sunday evening.

Fierce gunfight ensured between the Maoists and the security forces after the insurgents detonated socket bombs at a marketplace in Banepa. Eyewitnesses said there were casualties on the Maoist side also.

The injured policemen have been taken to the local Dhulikhel Hospital for treatment and the condition of three of them is said to be critical, reports added.

Sources at the police headquarters in Kathmandu confirmed the incident. “There was a clash after the blasts. We know of some casualties on our side but we are yet to receive the details,” the source told Nepalnews.