Security forces on Friday recovered a substantial cache of explosives and Maoist supplies following a gunfight with insurgents in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district. The recovered materials are believed to be part of a 1.5-tonne stockpile of explosives recently looted by Maoists from Odisha, according to sources.
The armed confrontation took place around noon in a dense forest area near the Jeraikela police station limits. Acting on specific intelligence inputs, a joint team of security forces launched a search operation targeting the movement of members of the banned CPI (Maoist) outfit. The group was reportedly led by wanted Maoist commander Hemant Besra and his associates.
During the operation, an intense exchange of fire erupted as the Maoists encountered the advancing forces. However, the insurgents eventually fled into the forest, taking advantage of the thick vegetation and difficult terrain.
Following the encounter, security personnel combed the area and discovered a significant cache of arms, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and other Maoist logistics and essential supplies. The explosives were successfully neutralized by bomb disposal experts at the site.
Also Read: 8 IEDs, cache of Maoists’ arms recovered in Jharkhand
In a separate but related incident nearby, one IED—presumably planted earlier by Maoists—detonated while being defused, injuring Constable/GD Sunil Kumar of the CoBRA 209 Battalion. He received prompt medical attention and is currently in stable condition, having been moved to a higher medical facility for further treatment.
Security forces have continued combing operations in and around West Singhbhum to track fleeing insurgents and prevent further Maoist activity. Authorities said that the seizure marks a significant disruption to Maoist logistical and operational capabilities in the region.
The joint operation involved multiple security formations, including the Chaibasa District Police, Jharkhand Jaguar units, CoBRA Battalions 203 and 209, and CRPF units from the 26th, 60th, 134th, 193rd, and 197th battalions, alongside other state police contingents. Officials affirmed that heightened vigilance will remain in effect across the region to counter further Maoist threats.
Also Read: Jharkhand suspends two top officers in liquor scam
Follow us
