Security forces kill 2 naxals, including one with 25 lakh bounty; 1 soldier dies

A fierce encounter between security forces and the CPI (Maoist) organization took place on Wednesday morning in the Birhordera forest area under the Gomia police station in Jharkhand's district. The operation resulted in the successful neutralization of two Naxalites, whose bodies have been recovered, marking a significant win for counter-insurgency efforts. However, the encounter also claimed the life of a brave Cobra-209 battalion soldier, highlighting the severe risks faced by security personnel in such operations.

One of the Naxalites killed in the encounter has been identified as Kunwar Manjhi, a notorious hardcore Naxalite from Jharkhand. Manjhi had a substantial bounty of ₹25 lakh on his head, signifying his importance within the Maoist hierarchy and the impact of his elimination on the organization's activities in the region. His death is expected to be a major blow to the Naxalite network.

According to intelligence information about the presence of Naxalites in the area, the police launched a targeted search operation in the Birhordera forest. This strategic move led to a direct confrontation between the security forces and the Naxalites at approximately six in the morning, which quickly escalated into an intense exchange of fire from both sides.

During the ensuing encounter, the security forces effectively engaged the Naxalites, ultimately leading to the deaths of two militants. In the initial search following the gunfight, the bodies of both Naxalites were recovered. One of the deceased was found in a Naxal uniform, while the other was in civilian clothing, indicating the varied disguises adopted by the insurgents. An AK-47 rifle was also seized from the encounter site, confirming the armed nature of the Naxalite presence.

Despite the operational success, the security forces suffered a casualty. A soldier from the Cobra-209 battalion sustained serious injuries during the exchange of fire. He was immediately evacuated for advanced medical treatment, but tragically, the soldier succumbed to his injuries before reaching the hospital, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.