Based on inputs, a team of DRG had launched the operation in Faraspal's interiors forests, located on Dantewada-Bijapur border, around 450 kms from here.
A group of armed Naxals opened indiscriminate fire on the security personnel close to Kacheghat village following which an encounter broke out between the two sides, he said.
Bodies of three cadres, including a female, clad in 'uniform' were later found. Besides, two 315 bore revolvers, a muzzle loading gun, some daily use items and two bags were also recovered from the spot, he said.
A thorough search of the area is underway and more details are awaited, the SP added.