Ranchi, Sept. 12: Chief minister Arjun Munda today announced a compensation of Rs 1 lakh each for the families of the 15 villagers killed by extremists last night in Giridih district.

Vowing to take action against the perpetrators, Munda suspected that the Maoists could have retreated to Bihar, whose police have been contacted for joint combing operations, he added.

Director-general of police V.D. Ram said the carnage indicated the level of desperation and frustration among the Maoists, who, he claimed, were on the run. Munda appealed to the people against getting demoralised and promised support to them in their fight against extremism.

The police force, ironically, reached the village after the media. Fear of landmines made them cautious, adding to the anger of the villagers.