Raipur/Bijapur, February 23 (NationPress) - A member of the Special Task Force sustained injuries due to an IED explosion in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh on Monday, amidst an ongoing operation targeting Naxal insurgents in the region.

The explosion took place in a wooded area where security forces were actively engaged in area domination and search operations aimed at mitigating Maoist activities.

A pressure-activated improvised explosive device, planted by Naxalites, detonated as the STF team traversed the area, resulting in injuries to one personnel from this elite counter-insurgency unit, according to official reports.

Immediate first aid was administered to the injured jawan by security personnel on the scene. He was quickly transported to a local medical facility and subsequently transferred to a higher-level hospital for specialized treatment.

As per senior police officials, the jawan's condition is currently stable and under vigilant medical care, with no life-threatening complications reported at this time.

This incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by Maoist insurgents in the Bastar division, particularly in Bijapur, a long-known stronghold for left-wing extremists.

Naxalites often deploy IEDs to target security convoys, patrols, and road-opening teams involved in anti-insurgency operations. These devices are frequently hidden along forest paths or roadways utilized by forces during combing missions.

In response to the explosion, security forces have heightened vigilance in the surrounding areas. Teams are conducting extensive searches to identify and neutralize any further IEDs or suspicious items that may pose a risk to personnel or civilians.

Officials stressed that area domination efforts are ongoing, with increased patrolling and surveillance to prevent additional incidents and to maintain pressure on Maoist groups.

The operation in Bijapur is part of broader strategies by both state and central governments to eradicate left-wing extremism in Chhattisgarh. Recent months have seen intensified initiatives, including collaborative efforts by the STF, District Reserve Guard, and central forces, resulting in the recovery of weapons, arrests, and surrenders.

Despite setbacks such as this explosion, authorities maintain that the security framework is becoming more robust, gradually diminishing the operational capacity of Naxal factions.

The injured STF jawan is receiving the necessary medical care, and an investigation is currently underway to trace the origin of the IED and identify those responsible.

Law enforcement has requested public assistance in reporting any suspicious activities in remote areas.

The local administration is coordinating support for both the injured personnel and their family.

Incidents like this emphasize the urgent need for continued vigilance, improved intelligence, and enhanced protective measures for forces involved in anti-Naxal operations.