Have Four Maoists Been Neutralised in a Major Anti-LWE Operation in Chhattisgarh?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Four Maoists neutralised in Bijapur district.
- Operation involved intermittent exchanges of fire.
- Coordination among DRG, COBRA, and STF units was essential.
- Significant weapon cache seized, including AK-47 and grenades.
- Ongoing operations to ensure no armed cadres escape.
Raipur/Bijapur, Jan 17 (NationPress) In a remarkable achievement, security forces have dealt a significant blow to the ongoing anti-LWE efforts in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, by neutralising four Maoist operatives, including a female cadre, during a series of encounters in the region's challenging north-western forested and hilly areas on Saturday.
The operation was initiated following accurate intelligence reports indicating the presence of the infamous Maoist leader Dilip Bedja, a Divisional Committee Member (DVCM) of the National Park Area Committee, alongside other armed members.
Acting on this crucial information, a collaborative team consisting of personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (COBRA), and Special Task Force (STF) launched a focused search mission in the remote locality.
According to Bijapur Superintendent of Police, Dr Jitendra Yadav, the operation commenced in the morning and involved intermittent gunfire exchanges between the Maoists and security forces.
The dense forests and challenging geographical conditions presented significant obstacles, yet the forces held their ground and advanced with caution.
Inspector General of Police for the Bastar Range, Sundarraj Pattilingam, commended the personnel for their discipline, strategic execution, and bravery in navigating such hostile circumstances.
He noted that the coordinated actions of the DRG, COBRA, and STF units are crucial in diminishing Maoist strongholds in the area.
By noon, the forces retrieved the bodies of two Maoist operatives from the encounter site.
Later in the day, a subsequent clash resulted in the death of two more Maoists, including a female cadre. Initial assessments confirmed that one of the deceased was Dilip Bedja, a prominent figure within the Maoist hierarchy. The other operatives are believed to be affiliated with the same area committee, although verification continues.
From the site, the forces confiscated a stash of weapons, including an AK-47 rifle, a .303 rifle, and grenades, highlighting the significant firepower the Maoists sought to employ against the security forces.
In light of potential threats, extensive search operations persist in the surrounding forests and hills to ensure no armed cadres evade capture. Security forces remain vigilant, committed to dismantling Maoist networks and restoring peace to the region.