At least three civilians, including a teenager, were injured in an explosion of an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by Naxalites in the central Indian state of Chhattisgarh, according to the Xinhua news agency, citing police sources.

Police officials say Naxalites often plant IEDs along roads, dirt paths, and in forests within the state to attack government forces. In addition to police and paramilitary forces, several civilians have also fallen victim to such traps.

Last week, 27 Naxalites, including a senior leader, were shot dead during a fierce gun battle with government troops in the state.