In a major setback for Maoists, security forces in West Singhbhum district in Jharkhand, have recovered a significant cache of 133 weapons and explosive materials, including firearms, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and communication equipment.
The seizure took place during an operation in the dense forests of Gufli village under the jurisdiction of the Tonto police station in the district.
The recovered items include one country-made pistol, two country-made carbines, one country-made bolt-action rifle, 13 rounds of .303 caliber ammunition, eight rounds of 7.62 MM ammunition, a magazine for a 7.62 MM SLR rifle, 10 kg of IEDs split into two units, 29 detonators, 58 safety fuses, five cordless walkie-talkies, three radio receivers, six sets of Naxal uniforms, two Maoist banners, and 95 spike rods.
The operation was carried out on Tuesday by a joint team of West Singhbhum Police and multiple battalions of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), including the 60th, 197th, 174th, 193rd, 134th, and 26th battalions. Security personnel launched the mission based on intelligence reports about Naxal presence in the area.
Authorities believe the recovered arms and explosives were likely intended for attacks on security forces and key locations. The large number of IEDs and detonators suggests that the extremists were planning ambushes or acts of sabotage.
Additionally, the presence of walkie-talkies and radio receivers indicates that the insurgents were working to maintain secure communication within their network.
The seizure, one of the largest in recent times, is considered a major victory in the State’s ongoing battle against left-wing extremism. Security forces remain on high alert and have expanded search operations in surrounding forested areas to prevent further insurgent activities.
The confiscated weapons and explosives have been sent for forensic analysis, and investigations are in progress to determine their origins.
Officials have urged residents to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement, emphasizing that public cooperation is essential in eradicating Naxal extremism.
Following this recent discovery, security agencies are maintaining heightened vigilance and continuing their efforts to track down remaining insurgents. With persistent counter-insurgency operations, authorities aim to eliminate extremist threats and restore lasting peace in the region.
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