Security Forces Intensify Anti-Maoist Drive Near Maharashtra Border
Narayanpur, Chhattisgarh – Security personnel neutralised two Maoists in a fierce encounter in the dense Abujhmad forests of Chhattisgarh’s Narayanpur district, near the Maharashtra border, on Monday. The operation, launched early in the morning, is still underway with intermittent gunfire being reported from the region.
Bodies and Weapons Recovered
Superintendent of Police Robinson Guria confirmed that two Maoists were killed in the exchange of fire. Their bodies have been recovered along with a cache of weapons. The identities of the slain Maoists are yet to be confirmed, and intelligence teams are working to ascertain their ranks and affiliations.
Joint Operation Based on Intelligence Inputs
The encounter began after a joint team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and Border Security Force (BSF) launched a search operation based on specific intelligence inputs regarding Maoist presence in the area. Maoists reportedly opened fire on the approaching security team, prompting immediate retaliation. Officials believe the recovered weapons indicate the presence of a well-armed group in the forested region.
Part of Sustained Crackdown in Bastar Region
The Abujhmad operation is part of sustained efforts by security forces to dismantle Maoist strongholds across Narayanpur and adjoining districts. Troops have been penetrating deep into remote forest belts, often facing hostile terrain and resistance from armed insurgents.
So far this year, Chhattisgarh has witnessed the killing of 248 Maoists in various encounters. Of these, 219 were neutralised in the Bastar division, which includes Narayanpur. The Gariaband district of Raipur division accounted for 27 Maoist deaths, while two were killed in Mohla-Manpur-Ambagadh Chowki district of the Durg division.
Major Operation Earlier This Month
On September 11, ten Maoists, including senior leader Modem Balakrishna, a Central Committee member of the banned CPI-Maoist, were killed in Gariaband, marking a significant blow to the insurgent network.
Authorities Urge Caution
Authorities have appealed to residents to remain vigilant and avoid venturing into interior forested areas until the situation stabilises. Security forces continue combing operations to eliminate remaining Maoist presence in the region.
