Security Forces Engage in Fierce Encounter with Maoists in Sukma, Several Injured

 

A major encounter took place between security forces and Maoists in the Sukma district of Chhattisgarh, resulting in significant damage to Maoist infrastructure and claims of several terrorists being injured.

 

The security forces, consisting of multiple units including the District Reserve Guard (DRG), Bastar Fighters, and COBRA battalions, launched a coordinated anti-Naxal operation in the dense forests of the Chintagufa region.

 

 

Acting on intelligence reports, security forces penetrated deep into Maoist core areas, targeting a camp along the Chintavagu River, located near the Kistaram Area Committee's jurisdiction.

 

The joint party, which included personnel from various COBRA units (206, 208, 204, and 203 battalions), embarked on the mission from the villages of Botelanka and Eranpalli on October 2, 2024, with the objective of neutralising Maoist forces entrenched in the area.

 

The encounter, which took place in the early hours of the morning, saw intermittent gunfire between the security personnel and members of the PLGA (People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army) battalion affiliated with Maoist terrorists.

 

According to local sources, the Maoists attempted to fend off the advancing forces but were overpowered by the superior numbers and firepower of the security forces.

 

 

During the operation, the forces managed to destroy a temporary Maoist camp and recover a significant cache of materials, including explosives and other supplies that were likely intended for future attacks.

 

The exact quantity and nature of the materials are yet to be disclosed as the forces are still conducting detailed searches in the area.

 

Sukma Superintendent of Police, Kiran Chavan, confirmed the encounter and added, "Our forces have made substantial progress in dismantling the Maoist infrastructure in this region. Several Maoists are suspected to have been injured, and we are currently conducting extensive searches to ensure the area is completely sanitised."

 

 

The operation is still ongoing, with the forces scouring the surrounding forested terrain for any remnants of Maoist forces. Given the challenging landscape of the Sukma district, known for its thick forests and difficult accessibility, the security forces have adopted a cautious approach to avoid potential traps or ambushes.

 

This encounter follows a string of successful operations in the Bastar region over the past year, where the government has ramped up its efforts to combat the long-standing Maoist terrorism. Chhattisgarh remains one of the most affected states by Maoist violence, with districts like Sukma being strongholds of the terrorists.

 

The police have assured the public that all security personnel involved in the operation are safe, and more information will be made available once the forces complete their search and return to base.

 

This development is part of a broader strategy to weaken Maoist operations and restore peace to the region.

 

As operations continue, the region remains under tight security, and the police are urging residents to cooperate with the authorities as they work towards neutralising the terrorism.

 

This encounter marks another significant step in the ongoing battle between security forces and Maoists in Chhattisgarh, where the conflict has spanned decades, causing substantial loss of life and hindering development.