Security forces in Odisha and Jharkhand have intensified their anti-Maoist operations following the recent looting of explosives by suspected Maoists.
A joint combing operation led by Odisha and Jharkhand police, along with CRPF and CoBRA battalions, resulted in the recovery of three tonnes of stolen explosives from the dense Saranda forest.
A clash occurred around noon between Maoists and security personnel in the Saranda forest, near Tiriliposi village, under the Jaraikela police station. This confrontation arose during a search operation conducted by security forces from Odisha and Jharkhand. After an exchange of gunfire, the Maoists could not withstand the attack and fled the area, prompting security personnel to intensify their search efforts.
Prior to this incident, police had received information indicating that key Maoist leaders, including Mishir Beshra, Mochhu, Anmol, Asim Mandal, and Ajay Mahato, planned to enter the Saranda forest to escalate Maoist activities in the Chotanagara and Jaraikela police station regions.
On September 27, a joint operation was initiated by the security forces of Odisha and Jharkhand in the Keblang police station area of Sundargarh district, following the theft of a van carrying explosives. The operation was overseen by State Director General of Police Y. B. Khurania, who had devised a special strategy during a review meeting in Rourkela. Consequently, the Maoists quickly retreated when confronted by the combined security forces.
The operation involved personnel from the Special Operations Group (SOG), Cobra Battalion, SIRF, and the Jharkhand Jaguar. During the operation, a member of the 200 Cobra Battalion, Sunil Kumar, sustained minor injuries due to an IED blast set off by the Maoists. He is currently receiving treatment at a private hospital in Rourkela.
Odisha DGP Y.B. Khurania coordinated the operation from Rourkela, ensuring a strategic approach to counter Maoist activities. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has also joined the investigation, suspecting that the theft was a retaliatory move by the Maoists following recent setbacks in Chhattisgarh.
Authorities have sealed the Odisha-Jharkhand border and heightened security measures to prevent further insurgent activities. Mining companies have been advised to enhance their logistics security, and all vehicles carrying explosive materials are now under strict surveillance.
