14 Maoists Eliminated in Ongoing Clash with Security Forces in Gariaband, Chhattisgarh; Search Operations Persist
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Synopsis
In an ongoing encounter in Gariaband, Chhattisgarh, at least 14 Maoists, including six women, have been reported killed. The operation, which began on January 19, has led to the recovery of various weapons. A collaborative effort by security forces from Chhattisgarh and Odisha continues as search operations proceed in the dense forests.
Key Takeaways
- 14 Maoists killed, six of whom were women.
- Ongoing search operation in Bhalu-Diggi forest.
- Weapons recovered include INSAS rifle and revolvers.
- Joint operation by forces from Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
- Chief Minister praised the security forces.
Gariaband (Chhattisgarh), Jan 22 (NationPress) At least 14 Maoists, including six women, have been killed during the ongoing confrontation with security forces in the Gariaband district of Chhattisgarh since last week as the search operation continues, confirmed a senior police official.
All the bodies of the deceased Maoists have been retrieved.
Raipur Inspector General of Police (IGP), Amresh Kumar Mishra, announced the details of the encounter in a press conference on Tuesday.
This confrontation initiated in the dense forests of Bhalu-Diggi at Kulhari Ghat in Gariaband district, beginning on the night of January 19 and is still ongoing.
The Raipur IGP stated, "Information was received regarding the presence of Maoists in the region, which led to the deployment of security forces to the location. A total of 14 Maoists have been neutralized in the past two days. Additionally, a significant quantity of weaponry has been seized from the site, including an INSAS rifle, SLR, revolver, and cartridges. Other materials have also been collected."
The operation was initiated on Monday night following precise intelligence inputs. It was a collaborative effort by security forces from Chhattisgarh and Odisha, including Operation Group E30 of Odisha Police, the 207th battalion of CRPF’s CoBRA unit, CRPF’s 65 and 211 Battalions, and SOG Nuapada.
IGP Mishra noted that a search operation is currently being conducted in the thick forests of Bhalu-Diggi.
Security personnel were also deployed in the area on Tuesday night.
The encounter persists with sporadic gunfire between security personnel and the Maoists.
According to official sources, over 50 Maoists were present in the vicinity, prompting the ongoing search operation.
Security forces have commenced thorough searches throughout the forest.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai commended the security forces for their success in neutralizing the Maoists and extended his congratulations.
He stated, "I extend my heartfelt congratulations to our security forces. Their bravery merits the highest commendation. This operation demonstrates our continuous success against the Maoists."
Previously, on January 16, 17 Maoists were killed in an encounter with security forces in the Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh, along with the recovery of a large cache of weapons.
This joint operation signifies a major achievement for security forces in their ongoing struggle to combat Maoist activities in the region.
