Synopsis
A Maoist was killed in an ongoing encounter in Mandla district, Madhya Pradesh. The operation involves the Hawk Force and state police, with heavy gunfire exchanged. The area remains under surveillance as search operations continue to locate any remaining Maoists.Key Takeaways
- Maoist killed in Mandla district operation.
- Ongoing gunfire exchange as police continue operations.
- Hawk Force deployed after receiving a tip-off.
- Area cordoned off due to potential Maoist presence.
- Part of the government's aim to eradicate Naxalism.
Mandla (Madhya Pradesh), March 9 (NationPress) - In an operation carried out by the Hawk Force alongside the state police, one Maoist was eliminated in Mandla district of Madhya Pradesh on Sunday. The operation is ongoing as gunfire persists from both factions.
Rajat Saklecha, Superintendent of Police, confirmed the incident to IANS via phone from the scene. The Hawk Force initiated the operation in a dense forest area near Kanha National Park and Balaghat after receiving a tip-off on Sunday morning, where they encountered approximately 15-20 Maoists.
“A male Maoist has been killed in the encounter, but we are yet to ascertain his identity due to the ongoing exchange of fire,” he stated. He added that intense retaliatory fire from the Naxal side was complicating the recovery of the deceased Maoist's body.
The clash commenced on Sunday afternoon at Chimta Forest Camp, situated on the border between Mandla and Balaghat. According to the police officer, the operation extended into the evening hours.
Another police official reported to IANS that the corpse of the Maoist is visible from afar, and the Hawk Force's search operation continues even after dusk. The area has been cordoned off due to the likelihood of additional Maoists in the vicinity.
As per further information, while the Hawk Force team was searching the Khatiya forest area, they came under fire from a group of Maoists. The Hawk Force promptly retaliated, leading to a significant exchange of gunfire. There is a possibility that other Maoists sustained injuries during the encounter and have retreated into the forest, with Hawk Force soldiers in pursuit.
Maoists have a long-standing presence in the forests of Mandla district, often executing minor incidents before fleeing the area. Previous encounters between police and Maoists have also transpired in the district.
A battalion of CRPF (Central Reserve Police Forces) has been stationed in Mandla district for several years, enhancing the operational capabilities of both the district and the Hawk Force, enabling them to act swiftly.
In a prior engagement near Lalpur village of Motinala police station in the district, police eliminated two Maoists, including a female member, and seized weapons from the site. These Maoists were associated with the Kanha Bhoramdev Bodla Committee. This ongoing operation is part of the Union government’s initiative to eradicate Naxalism by March 2026.
