10 Maoists Killed in Sukma Encounter, Large Cache of Weapons Seized
In a significant operation on Friday, security forces killed at least ten Maoists in a fierce encounter in the Sukma district of Chhattisgarh, with police officials confirming the casualties.
Encounter Details
The violent clash took place in the forested areas of Korajuguda, Dantewada, Nagaram, and Bhandarpadar, regions known for Maoist presence. The operation, which was a joint effort between the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), followed intelligence reports about Maoist movements in the area.
Inspector General of Police (Bastar Range), Sunderaj P, stated that the operation was launched based on credible information regarding the presence of armed Maoists in the region. He further mentioned, “We are currently identifying the deceased Maoists. This operation has dealt a significant blow to the insurgents.”
The security forces also recovered a substantial amount of weaponry from the encounter site, including AK-47 and INSAS rifles, along with SLR rifles. This cache of weapons highlights the level of armament possessed by the Maoists and the seriousness of their ongoing operations in the region.
Ongoing Search and Efforts
Search operations in the area are ongoing, as security forces continue combing the dense forests for any remaining insurgents. Authorities expect to gather more information regarding the operation as the investigation progresses.
Related Incident in Odisha
On Thursday, security forces were involved in a similar exchange of gunfire near the Odisha-Chhattisgarh border, in the Malkangiri district. During the confrontation, one Maoist was killed as forces were engaged in their regular anti-insurgency operations. This marks the second major encounter within the same week.
Chhattisgarh’s Continued Anti-Naxal Efforts
In a bid to further intensify the fight against Maoist insurgency, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai recently met Union Home Minister Amit Shah to discuss progress in anti-Naxal operations in the state.
CM Sai expressed confidence that the state was making significant strides in neutralizing Maoist influence. He noted that nearly 200 Maoists had been neutralized in the past year alone, with over 600 insurgents surrendering to authorities.
“We are determined to achieve the goal set by the Union Home Minister of a Naxal-free India by 2026. These efforts, in collaboration with the security forces, will continue until peace and stability are fully restored in Naxal-affected regions,” CM Sai emphasized.
These developments underscore the ongoing commitment of the government to combat Maoist insurgency, restore peace, and encourage development in areas long affected by violence and instability.
