Security forces achieved a significant breakthrough in the ongoing anti-Naxal operations in Jharkhand with the seizure of a massive stockpile of arms, ammunition, and explosives in West Singhbhum district on Monday.
The operation was carried out by a joint team comprising the Jharkhand Police, the Commando Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) 203 and 209 Battalions, and several units of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), including the 26th, 60th, 134th, 174th, 193rd, and 197th Battalions.
Acting on specific intelligence inputs, the security forces launched a well-coordinated combing operation in the dense forested areas near Lajtak, Tinri, and surrounding villages under the jurisdiction of the Tonto police station.
The operation led to the discovery of a significant cache of weaponry, including a 7.62 LMJ rifle, a self-loading rifle (SLR), a Vickers machine gun, a cutter device, and four pistols. In addition to firearms, a large quantity of explosives and chemicals suspected to be used in the manufacturing of explosive devices were recovered.
The seized items included seven bottles containing suspected explosive chemicals, three bottles of potassium permanganate, twelve bottles of potassium chloride, and eleven bottles of ethylene diamine. A safety frame and various survival essentials were also found at the site, indicating that the cache was part of a well-planned logistical supply for Naxalite activities in the region.
Authorities suspect that these materials were stockpiled for future attacks on security forces and key infrastructure, forming a crucial part of the insurgents’ strategy to sustain their operations.
The seizure is seen as a major setback for the Naxalites, significantly weakening their operational capabilities in the region. In the aftermath of the discovery, security forces have intensified surveillance and search operations to dismantle remaining Naxal networks and prevent any resurgence of militant activity.
The recovered explosives and firearms have been sent for forensic analysis, and an extensive investigation is underway to trace their origin and potential links to larger insurgent groups.
Superintendent of Police, West Singhbhum, Ashutosh Shekhar, hailed the operation as a significant achievement in the fight against Naxal insurgency. He emphasised that the successful seizure of such a large cache of arms and explosives not only neutralizes immediate threats but also reinforces the confidence of local communities in the security forces.
A CRPF official echoed these sentiments, asserting that the operation sends a strong message to insurgents that their activities will not be tolerated. Security forces remain vigilant and committed to ensuring long-term peace and stability in the region.
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