In a significant operation, over 30 Naxals were killed in an encounter on Friday between joint security forces and members of the banned CPI (Maoist) outfit. The encounter took place along the border of the Dantewada and Narayanpur districts in Chhattisgarh. Security forces recovered a substantial cache of arms and ammunition, including AK-47s and SLRs, from the site. The bodies of the deceased Naxals, along with their weapons, were also retrieved.

A joint team of paramilitary forces and police personnel from Narayanpur and Dantewada had been deployed for anti-Maoist operations the day before the encounter. While conducting a combing operation in the Abujhmad area—known as a stronghold for Naxals—the forces were ambushed near the villages of Nenduli, Thulthuli, and Gober.

The gunfight broke out between 12 PM and 1 PM after the Naxals attacked the security personnel. Following the exchange of fire, the police conducted a search operation and recovered the bodies of the Naxals. Fortunately, no injuries were reported among the security forces, as confirmed by a senior officer from the Bastar police. The operation is still ongoing, and final updates will be provided once all personnel return safely to the base.

During the ongoing monsoon season, more than 212 Naxalites have been arrested in the Bastar division, according to Sundarraj P, Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range. In addition to the arrests, 201 Naxals have surrendered this year, and 164 Naxalites have been killed in 2024 alone.

At the time the encounter news broke, Chief Minister Vishnudev Sai was visiting Dantewada to inaugurate and perform the Bhoomi Pujan for development projects worth ₹167.21 crores. He emphasized the progress made in the Naxal-affected Bastar region and reiterated his commitment to making the area Naxal-free. The Chief Minister praised the efforts of the security forces in restoring peace and fighting Naxalism.

Seven Naxals Killed in Chhattisgarh Encounter, Large Cache of Weapons Recovered