Raipur, Oct 15 (NationPress) In a notable blow to the Maoist insurgency in Chhattisgarh, sources suggest that approximately 100 additional Maoists may surrender in Kanker district, with an official police statement anticipated shortly.

This development follows a recent mass surrender in the area, underscoring the effectiveness of government initiatives and security operations in diminishing Naxalite strongholds.

A senior police official, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated, "Maoists are coming forward in Kanker in large numbers, but detailed information will be provided through proper channels soon."

Attempts to reach senior officials were unsuccessful as they were engaged in the remote areas of the Bastar region. The establishment of additional police camps in these interior areas, along with the state's new rehabilitation policy and the 'Niyad Nellanar' scheme, is showing tangible results.

After a series of surrenders in Sukma, Kanker has now emerged as a key site for defections from Naxal ranks.

On Monday, notorious North Bastar Naxalite leader Raju Salam, along with his entire Company No. 5 team, surrendered at the Kamteda BSF camp in the Koylibeda police station area of Kanker district. This event is hailed as one of the largest surrenders in the history of Chhattisgarh's anti-Naxal efforts.

Reports suggest this could lead to the declaration of numerous regions in North Bastar as 'Naxal-free.' Additionally, in Kondagaon district, a female Naxalite, Geeta alias Kamli Salam, who had a bounty of Rs 5 lakh, also surrendered to the police.

The mass surrender in Kanker has brought significant relief to security agencies and local governance. Local sources report that over 100 Maoists arrived in three buses at the Kamteda BSF camp to lay down their arms.

Among the notable figures are Company No. 5 commander Raju Salam, Prasad, Meena, Bhaskar, and Rajman. Notably, both Raju Salam and Rajman had bounties of Rs 25 lakh on their heads.

However, an official announcement from security forces is still pending. The group includes 30 Maoists with rewards surpassing Rs 5 lakh each, in addition to numerous other active members, according to sources.

Security forces facilitated their safe passage via a pre-established secret route, escorting them from Gendabeda village to Kamteda in BSF buses. The operation was led by the Inspector General of Police, senior security officers, and the BSF team.

Initially scheduled for October 15, the surrender occurred a day later for security reasons. Notably, the total bounty on the heads of those who defected exceeds Rs 2.5 crore. Many had been active in sensitive areas like the Mad Division and the Raoghat Area Committee.

Experts credit this achievement to both the concerted efforts of security forces and effective government policies coupled with community engagement.