Malkangiri Police in Odisha arrested two hardcore Maoists, Kesa Kawasi and Rakesh alias Sanu Kunjam, today during an operation in the dense jungles near Sodiguda and Tentuliguda villages under Mathili Police Station.
Acting on credible intelligence received on the night of June 12, 2025, about Maoist movements in the area, the Malkangiri Police swiftly formed a specialised team to conduct a search operation in the forested region. In the early hours of June 13, as security forces closed in, the Maoists attempted to flee and opened fire on the personnel. In a measured response, the police retaliated in self-defence, leading to a brief exchange of gunfire. While some Maoists managed to escape, Kesa Kawasi and Rakesh alias Sanu Kunjam were apprehended.
Kesa Kawasi, hailing from the Darbha Police Station area of Bastar district, Chhattisgarh, and Rakesh alias Sanu Kunjam, from the Gangalur Police Station area of Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, are known to be involved in multiple Maoist-related incidents. Kawasi is linked to cases registered in Boipariguda and Kundra Police Stations in Koraput district, as well as Mathili Police Station in Malkangiri. Similarly, Sanu Kunjam is implicated in cases under the Mathili Police Station.
The operation yielded a significant haul of incriminating materials, including a pistol, six rounds of ammunition, electric detonators, wires, gunpowder, a walkie-talkie, a battery, and Maoist literature.
This successful raid is part of the Odisha Police’s sustained efforts to dismantle Maoist networks in the state’s vulnerable regions. Malkangiri, a known Maoist stronghold, has seen intensified operations by security forces to restore peace and security.
The Odisha Police Headquarters, in a press note released on June 13, 2025, commended the bravery and precision of the security personnel involved in the operation. The arrests are seen as a step forward in the state’s fight against extremism, sending a strong message to insurgent groups operating in the area.
