In a significant breakthrough against left-wing extremism, the Jharkhand police apprehended two key area commanders of the Jharkhand Jan Mukti Parishad (JJMP) in Latehar district on Wednesday. The successful operation has dealt a blow to the outlawed group's activities in the region.
Wanted Commanders Brought to Justice
The arrested individuals have been identified as Sunil Oraon (35), who also went by the alias 'Button', and Mukesh Lohra (28). Latehar Superintendent of Police Kumar Gaurav confirmed the details of the arrest, highlighting the serious criminal background of the duo.
Sunil Oraon was a particularly high-value target, with a bounty of Rs 2 lakh on his head. He was wanted in connection with four separate criminal cases registered across police stations in Chandwa, Manika, Balumath, and Latehar itself. His associate, Mukesh Lohra, faced two criminal cases.
From Maoist Ranks to JJMP Leadership
SP Gaurav provided insight into Sunil Oraon's militant trajectory. "Sunil was primarily a Maoist and had been jailed in the past. However, during the Covid-19 pandemic, he joined JJMP," the officer stated. This shift underscores the fluid and often interconnected nature of extremist factions in the area.
Police sources revealed that Sunil Oraon had reportedly distanced himself from the JJMP following the death of its chief, Pappu Lohra, earlier this year. Despite this, authorities believe he was actively seeking opportunities to reignite acts of left-wing extremism, making his capture crucial for maintaining peace.
A Coordinated Police Operation
The arrest was the result of a meticulously planned joint operation conducted by personnel from the Latehar and Manika police stations. This coordinated effort demonstrates the police's focused strategy to dismantle extremist networks operating in the district's forested and rural landscapes.
Expressing confidence in the ongoing crackdown, SP Latehar Kumar Gaurav made a firm declaration about the future of the JJMP in the region. "The JJMP will soon be an obsolete chapter of extremism here in Latehar," he asserted, signaling the administration's resolve to uproot the group's influence completely.
Implications for Security in Latehar
The jailing of these two area commanders is expected to significantly disrupt the operational capabilities of the JJMP in Latehar district. It marks a critical step in law enforcement's broader campaign to neutralize threats posed by various splinter groups and harden the state's security apparatus against left-wing extremism.
This operation not only brings wanted criminals to justice but also serves as a strong deterrent, sending a clear message that the police are vigilant and capable of targeting leadership figures within insurgent outfits. The community hopes this action will lead to enhanced stability and security in the region.
