Raipur, Feb 14 (NationPress) Four soldiers from the 201st COBRA Battalion tragically died when their vehicle collided with a stationary truck on the Khapri bypass in Dhamtari district, Chhattisgarh, on Saturday, as reported by officials.

The incident, which transpired under the jurisdiction of the Arjuni police station, has plunged the state into mourning over the loss of these courageous individuals committed to fighting Naxalism in the area.

One soldier remains critically injured and is currently fighting for his life in a local hospital, as authorities investigate the factors that led to the accident.

According to police reports, the soldiers were returning from Jagdalpur when their car crashed into the parked truck. The collision was devastating, crushing the vehicle beneath the truck and entrapping the soldiers inside.

Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, utilizing gas cutters to free the victims from the wreckage.

State Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai expressed his deep sorrow on his X handle, stating, “The news of our brave soldiers from the Cobra Battalion passing away in such a tragic accident today is heartbreaking. I extend my heartfelt tributes to these heroes who served our nation and offer my deepest condolences to their grieving families.”

State Home Minister Vijay Sharma also shared his condolences on X, saying, “The untimely loss of our brave soldiers in this horrific accident is exceedingly painful. I pay my sincere tributes to these heroes dedicated to serving Mother India. My deepest sympathies are with the bereaved families; we stand with them during this difficult time.”

Sadly, two soldiers died at the scene, while two others succumbed to their injuries en route to medical assistance. The sole survivor was rushed to the Dhamtari District Hospital, where medical staff report his condition as critical.

The bodies of the four deceased soldiers have been sent for post-mortem examinations, with preliminary investigations suggesting that speeding may have been a primary cause. However, police officials assert that a comprehensive inquiry is ongoing to ascertain if additional factors, such as road conditions or vehicle malfunction, played a role in the tragedy.

The COBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) unit, part of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), is recognized for its operations in areas affected by Maoist activity. This loss highlights the inherent dangers faced by security personnel, even during routine travel.