Security Forces and Maoists Clash in Gidauniya Forest
In a significant confrontation, security forces engaged with Naxalites in the forest area of Chatro Chatti police station in Bokaro district, marking a critical moment in the ongoing struggle against insurgency.
RANCHI – The encounter, occurring in the Gidauniya forest nestled between Chayatand and Danra of Chutte Panchayat, saw intense exchange of fire for approximately two hours despite adverse weather conditions.
The skirmish, taking place at the base of Jhumra mountain, ended with the Naxalites retreating into the dense forest as security forces gained the upper hand.
Bokaro Police Superintendent Priyadarshi Alok confirmed the absence of casualties from the encounter, highlighting the prompt response of Cobra, Jharkhand Jaguar, and District Police units initiating a comprehensive anti-Naxal search operation.
The operation was launched following reliable intelligence about the presence of a Maoist squad within the forest, leading to the Tuesday morning clash.
Alok revealed that the Maoist zonal commander Birsen, also known as Chanchal Da or Raghunath Manjhi, and his squad of 12 to 14 cadres were the targets of the security forces’ pursuit.
Post-encounter, the focus has shifted to a thorough search operation, with details on ammunition exchanged and materials recovered yet to be ascertained due to ongoing field activities.
The Bokaro SP remarked on the diminishing influence of Naxalites in the district, attributing their desperate actions to frustration and a need to assert their dwindling presence.
