Security Forces Recover Explosive Device, Arrest Four Naxalites

Security forces discovered a significant threat in Chhattisgarh on Saturday, recovering a 10-kg improvised explosive device (IED) in the Bijapur district. The device was planted by members of the Naxalite group, also known as Maoists, and was located beneath the Gorna-Mankeli road. In a separate operation, four Naxalite members were apprehended in the Sukma district, including one individual who had a bounty of Rs 2 lakh on his head.

The IED was detected during a demining exercise conducted by a team comprising the District Reserve Guard, local police, and a bomb disposal squad. Upon inspection, authorities found that the explosive was fitted with a command switch and connected to an underground electric wire stretching approximately 70 to 80 metres, aimed at targeting security personnel. The bomb disposal squad successfully neutralised the explosive device shortly after its discovery.

Details of the Arrests in Sukma

In the neighbouring Sukma district, security forces made significant progress against the Naxalite insurgency by arresting four individuals linked to the Maoist organisation. This operation took place within the jurisdiction of the Kerlapal police station. Among those arrested was Muchaki Deva, a 29-year-old militia commander who was actively involved with the outlawed group. The remaining three individuals were identified as lower-rung cadres within the organisation.

Authorities recovered additional explosives during this operation, including two tiffin bombs weighing 5 kg each, four detonators, four gelatin rods, and various electric and cordex wires. These findings highlight the ongoing risks posed by such groups in the region, particularly as IEDs have previously resulted in civilian casualties in the tribal-dominated areas of Chhattisgarh.

The government has intensified operations against Naxalite groups, particularly in the Bastar region, which includes Bijapur and Sukma among its seven districts. The use of IEDs by Maoists along roads and dirt tracks poses a persistent threat to patrolling security forces, as these devices are strategically planted to ambush military personnel.

This series of operations underscores the efforts of security forces to mitigate threats from Naxalite insurgents while protecting civilians in the region. The focus remains on disarming these groups and reducing their capacity to carry out attacks, which continue to endanger both security personnel and local communities.