security-forces-neutralize-18-militants-in-bastar-clash

In a significant clash in Chhattisgarh's Bastar region, a substantial anti-Naxal operation resulted in the death of 18 militants, while also leaving three security personnel wounded. The encounter occurred in the forest area of Chhotebethiya, Kanker, a known hotspot for Naxal activity.

Inspector General of Police for the Bastar region, P P Sundarraj, confirmed the casualties and detailed the recovery of numerous weapons, marking the operation as one of the most consequential in recent times.

"This can be seen as one of the biggest anti-Naxal operations in the area," said Sundarraj, highlighting the strategic importance of the operation initiated after receiving tips about the presence of senior Naxals including Shankar, Lalita, and Raju in the region.

The operation, carried out on April 16, 2024, was a joint effort by the Border Security Force (COB Chotebetiya) and the District Reserve Guard (DRG), based on specific intelligence. As the forces advanced into the area near Binagunda under Chotebetiya Police Station, they encountered heavy gunfire from Naxal cadres.

In the ensuing gunfight, BSF troops managed to neutralise the threat effectively, although one BSF personnel sustained a leg injury from a bullet. He was promptly evacuated and is reported to be out of danger. The total count of injured security personnel stands at three.

Authorities recovered an array of firearms from the encounter site, including seven AK series rifles and three light machine guns, indicating the heavy armament of the Naxal group.

The operation continues as security forces are conducting a thorough search of the area to ensure no further threats remain and to possibly apprehend other militants.

The incident underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Indian security forces in tackling left-wing extremism in the dense forests of central India, a longstanding issue that continues to demand high levels of vigilance and strategic counter-insurgency operations. Further updates are awaited as the situation develops and the search operation progresses.