The ‘Naxal-free India’ campaign continues to gain momentum as 17 Maoists were killed during an encounter with security forces in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh, on Saturday.
The intense operation lasted for four hours and was based on intelligence regarding Maoists camping on Gogunda hill near Upampali village in the Keralapal area.
A joint combing operation was conducted by police, DIRG, and CRPF forces. Following the encounter, two AK-47 rifles, numerous country-made firearms, and a large cache of ammunition and explosives were recovered from the site. While two security personnel sustained injuries during the operation, they are currently under treatment at Sukma Hospital and reported to be in stable condition.
Earlier operations this year in Chhattisgarh have resulted in significant casualties among Maoists, with over 100 lives lost during joint operations. The campaign aims to eliminate Maoist activities and reclaim peace in affected areas.
Balangir Forest Resounds with Gunfire: Gandhamardan Maoist Standoff:
An intense exchange of fire between police forces and Maoists erupted in the Gandhamardan hill region of Bolangir. Acting on intelligence reports about Maoists hiding in the area, local police along with security forces initiated a combing operation.
Upon spotting the security personnel, Maoists opened fire, leading to a fierce gun battle between both sides that continued late into the night. The operation is still ongoing, with combined efforts underway in the dense forest. Police reports indicate that this is not the first confrontation in Gandhamardan, as Maoist activities have been observed here since 2008.
The region has seen multiple encounters over the years, with more than 10 Maoists killed in police operations previously. Recent intelligence suggests a resurgence of Maoist activity in Gandhamardan after a period of silence, prompting enhanced measures by the government and security forces to curb the threat.
