On September 3, 2024, a pivotal encounter took place on the border between Dantewada and Bijapur districts in Chhattisgarh, leading to the deaths of nine Naxal insurgents. The operation, executed by the District Reserve Guards (DRG) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), marks a significant achievement in the ongoing battle against Naxal violence in the region. This operation underscores the continued commitment and effectiveness of the security forces in countering insurgent threats.
#### **2. Operation Details:**
The operation began on Monday after the DRG and CRPF received actionable intelligence about the presence of a large group of Naxals in the dense forests of Purangel and Andri, near Loha village. According to the intelligence, approximately 40 Naxals from the West Bastar division were believed to be in the area.
The security forces launched the operation early Tuesday morning, and the encounter started at around 10:30 am. The clash involved heavy gunfire as the Naxal group engaged the security personnel. Superintendent of Police (SP) for Dantewada, Gaurav Rai, confirmed that nine Naxals were killed during the exchange. Their bodies were discovered in PLGA (People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army) uniforms. Identification of the deceased is underway, and further search operations are being conducted in the area.
3. Encounter Highlights:**
The encounter occurred in a rugged and forested region, known for being a key area of Naxal activity. Despite the challenging conditions, the coordinated efforts of the DRG and CRPF led to a successful engagement with the Naxal group. The operation showcased the effectiveness of the security forces’ tactics and their ability to handle complex insurgent threats.
The firefight, which lasted several hours, was marked by intense exchanges of gunfire. Following the end of the confrontation, security forces initiated comprehensive search operations to ensure that no additional Naxals remained in the vicinity.
4. Weapons Recovered and Ongoing Search:**
In the aftermath of the encounter, security forces recovered several weapons, including an SLR, a .303 rifle, and a 315 bore rifle. These weapons, which were in the possession of the Naxals, indicate the level of armament used by the insurgents. The recovery of these arms is a critical element in understanding the operational capabilities of the Naxal group.
Search operations are ongoing in the surrounding forest areas to secure the region fully and to locate any remaining Naxal operatives or hidden weapons caches. The continued vigilance of the security forces is essential in ensuring the safety and stability of the area.
5. Impact and Strategic Importance:**
The successful operation is a major blow to the Naxal insurgency in Chhattisgarh. By neutralizing nine Naxals, the security forces have significantly weakened the insurgent group’s presence and operational capacity in the region. This encounter demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led operations and the critical role of coordinated security efforts in combating insurgency.
The state government, led by Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel, has reaffirmed its support for the security forces and its commitment to addressing the Naxal issue through both security measures and developmental initiatives.
The encounter in Loha village represents a significant success in the fight against Naxal insurgency. With nine Naxals killed and important weapons recovered, the operation highlights the efficiency of targeted counter-insurgency strategies. As search operations continue, Chhattisgarh remains focused on maintaining peace and security, reinforcing its resolve to address insurgency challenges with strategic and coordinated efforts.
Saathee Global
