Security forces engaged in a fierce gun battle with Maoists in Jharkhand’s Saranda jungle near Kumbhdih village on Thursday morning.
The encounter has triggered tension across the forest region as forces continue their operation.
Reports indicate that five to seven Maoists were killed during the clash. Sources suggest that the Anal Daste group was involved, and its leader, Anal Daste, who carried a bounty of Rs 50 lakh, is believed to be among those eliminated.
The operation began after intelligence inputs revealed Maoists were planning a major strike in the area. Heavy firing continued intermittently throughout the day, creating panic in nearby villages.
Officials confirmed that the operation remains ongoing. Security forces deployed additional teams and backup units to block escape routes and tighten the cordon around the Maoists. The dense terrain of Saranda has made the operation challenging, but forces remain determined to neutralise the threat.
Authorities declared a high alert across the Saranda jungle. The encounter marks a significant blow to Maoist activities in Jharkhand, especially with the reported elimination of Anal Daste.
