Gadchiroli Anti-Naxal Operation Claims Lives of Three Maoists and a Brave Jawan
In a significant development along the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border, a fierce anti-Naxal operation in Gadchiroli has resulted in the deaths of three Maoists and the martyrdom of a C-60 jawan. The operation, which has been ongoing for several days, highlights the persistent security challenges in the region.
Details of the Casualties and Injuries
The police confirmed that three Maoists were killed during the operation. On Thursday, the body of a male Maoist was recovered along with an AK-47 rifle and an SLR. Subsequently, on Friday morning, the bodies of another male and a female Maoist were found. Their identities remain unknown as investigations continue.
Tragically, Deepak Chinna Madavi, a 38-year-old police constable and resident of Aheri, succumbed to his injuries. He was airlifted from the dense forests of Abujhmad early Friday morning and taken to the Bhamragad sub-district hospital, but could not be saved. In a separate incident, another jawan, Joga Madavi from Kishtyapalli, suffered bullet injuries on Thursday night. He was evacuated and airlifted to Bhamragad, where he is reported to be out of danger and is expected to be shifted to Gadchiroli shortly.
Operation Overview and Security Measures
The Gadchiroli police launched this anti-Maoist operation on the night of February 3, based on intelligence inputs regarding the presence of cadres from Coy No 10 and an unidentified Maoist formation from Chhattisgarh. The operation commenced along the Narayanpur-Gadchiroli district border, near Phodewada village, and involved 14 C-60 units led by the sub-divisional police officer of Bhamragad.
On Tuesday, security forces engaged in a firefight with Maoists, leading to the busting of two Maoist camps and the seizure of a large quantity of Naxal-related material. However, due to the hostile terrain and dense forest cover, some Maoists managed to evade capture. To strengthen the cordon, four additional C-60 units and one Quick Action Team of the Central Reserve Police Force were inducted on Wednesday morning.
Ongoing Efforts and Statements from Authorities
Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police Neelotpal stated that the operation is ongoing deep into Abujmad on the Narayanpur border, targeting the last remaining cadres. Search operations are set to continue in the area to ensure complete neutralization of threats. This operation underscores the relentless efforts of security forces to combat Naxalism in the region, despite the challenging environmental conditions.
The incident serves as a stark reminder of the sacrifices made by jawans in maintaining law and order in conflict zones. The community and authorities are mourning the loss of Deepak Chinna Madavi while praying for the swift recovery of Joga Madavi.
