Who were the 50 Maoists arrested in Andhra Pradesh following the killing of Maoist Chief Hidma?
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Synopsis
In a significant operation in Andhra Pradesh, following the death of Maoist Commander Madvi Hidma, authorities arrested 50 Maoists, including security personnel of the Maoist leader. This extensive crackdown across five districts highlights ongoing tensions and security challenges in the region.
Key Takeaways
- 50 Maoists arrested in a significant operation.
- Nine security guards of Maoist Chief Devuji were among those detained.
- Majority of detainees are from Chhattisgarh.
- Operation conducted across multiple districts.
- Intelligence-led operations are crucial in combating Maoist activities.
Vijayawada, Nov 18 (NationPress) Just hours after the elimination of the prominent Maoist Commander Madvi Hidma in the Alluri Sitharamaraju district, authorities have detained 50 Maoists, which include nine bodyguards of the Maoist leader Devuji, during extensive raids across five districts in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday.
The arrests took place in locations such as Vijayawada, Kakinada, and Eluru, as part of a coordinated effort involving various intelligence agencies, the specialized counter-terrorism unit OCTOPUS, and local police.
A significant number of 31 Maoists, comprising 21 women, were apprehended from a facility in Vijayawada, causing a considerable stir in the area.
Additionally, 15 Maoists were captured in Eluru, where they were reportedly concealed within the Green City gated community.
These individuals had been hiding there for approximately a week, with connections to Odisha.
In Kakinada, two Maoists were taken into custody, with further arrests made in other locations.
The joint operation in Vijayawada was initiated based on intelligence derived from Hidma's diary, which was recovered following the encounter earlier that morning.
Personnel from OCTOPUS, the Greyhounds, and local law enforcement surrounded a four-story building in New Autonagar after receiving tips regarding Maoist activity.
Security teams, accompanied by a bomb squad, conducted a meticulous search, leading to the apprehension of the Maoists who had sought refuge.
While weapons were seized during the operation, official details have yet to be disclosed.
The majority of those detained hail from Chhattisgarh.
Among them, nine members belong to the protection detail of CPI (Maoist) Central Committee Secretary Thippiri Tirupathi, also known as Devuji.
V. Vidhya Sagar Naidu, the Superintendent of Police for Krishna District, indicated that the other detained individuals were part of the battalion led by Hidma.
Hidma was the chief of the People's Liberation Guerilla Army (PLGA) battalion, regarded as the most formidable Maoist unit.
Vidyasagar mentioned that intelligence suggested that, due to intensified anti-Maoist operations in Chhattisgarh, CPI (Maoist) members had crossed into Andhra Pradesh, intending to rejuvenate their movement.
Previously, Mahesh Chandra Laddha, the Additional Director General (Intelligence), reported that a total of 31 Maoists had been arrested across Krishna, NTR, and Kakinada districts.
Given the influx of migrant workers from states like Chhattisgarh employed in various industries around Vijayawada, particularly Autonagar, the Maoists had taken refuge there to avoid detection.
The raids occurred shortly after the confrontation in the forests of Alluri Sitharamaraju, where six Maoists, including the top commander Hidma and his spouse Raje, were killed.
Amid increased pressure from security forces in Chhattisgarh, numerous Maoists from that region are believed to have sought sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh.
Laddha stated that they have been monitoring Maoist movements for the past month, suspecting some had moved deeper into Andhra Pradesh.
Authorities are also investigating the owner of the Autonagar building and attempting to identify those who provided shelter to the Maoists and their supporters.
Moreover, inquiries are underway to determine if any attacks were being plotted.
Police officials noted that such a significant number of Maoists had not been apprehended from any Andhra Pradesh city, even during previous peaks of Maoist activity.
Point of View
It is vital to recognize the complexities surrounding the Maoist issue in India. While the recent arrests highlight significant law enforcement efforts, they also underscore the ongoing challenges posed by insurgent activities in various states. A balanced approach is essential in addressing both security and socio-economic factors that contribute to this persistent issue.
NationPress
18/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the arrests of the 50 Maoists in Andhra Pradesh?
The arrests were prompted by the killing of top Maoist Commander Madvi Hidma, leading to extensive searches based on intelligence gathered from his diary.
Which districts were involved in the operation?
The operation involved searches in five districts, including Vijayawada, Kakinada, and Eluru.
What was the significance of Madvi Hidma's death?
Madvi Hidma was a prominent Maoist leader, and his death marked a critical blow to the Maoist movement, prompting a crackdown on their activities.
What are the demographics of the arrested Maoists?
The arrested individuals included a majority from Chhattisgarh and notable numbers of women, indicating a diverse recruitment within the Maoist ranks.
What measures are being taken to address Maoist activities in Andhra Pradesh?
Authorities are conducting joint operations between intelligence units and the police, aiming to dismantle Maoist networks and prevent potential attacks.
