In a significant and proactive measure against the ongoing insurgency in Kolhan, security forces have successfully recovered two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) weighing approximately 5 kilograms each in the forest area of Tonto police station area under West Singhbhum. The operation, part of a concerted effort to neutralize the influence of the banned CPI(Maoist) organization.
On Monday, security forces conducted a thorough sweep of the forested and hilly terrains between Tumbahaka and Chidiyabeda, a known area for Naxalite movement. During this operation, the two IEDs were discovered hidden in the ground, strategically placed to target security forces conducting patrols in the area.
With the assistance of a specialized bomb disposal squad, the IEDs were safely recovered and destroyed on-site, thereby eliminating a potential threat to both security personnel and local civilians. The swift action of the security forces is being commended for its effectiveness in preventing possible attacks that could have had dire consequences.
The operation was launched on October 10, 2023, in response to credible intelligence reports indicating that several top leaders of the CPI(Maoist), including Misir Besra, Anmol, Maechhu, Anal, Asim Mandal, Chaman, Ajay Mehta, Sagan Angaria, and Ashwin, were operating in the Kalehan region. These leaders, along with their squad members, have been reportedly involved in subversive activities aimed at destabilizing local governance and inciting violence against security personnel.
In light of this information, a joint task force was established, comprising multiple security agencies, including the Chaibasa Police, Kobra 209 Battalion, 203 Battalion, 205 Battalion, Jharkhand Jaguar, and several battalions of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The collaborative nature of this operation underscores the commitment of local and central security forces to tackle the Naxalite threat head-on.
The operation spanned several border villages, including Kuida, Chhota Kuida, Maradiri, Meralgada, Hathiburu, Tilaybeda Boypaisang, Katamba, Bayahatu, Boray, Lemsadih, Husipi, Rajabasa, Tumbahaka, Regra, Patatorb, Gaiburu, and Luiya. This extensive search aimed to not only locate the IEDs but also to dismantle any operational infrastructure set up by the insurgents.
The recovery of these explosives not only highlights the ongoing risks posed by Naxalite groups but also emphasizes the importance of community awareness and cooperation with security forces. Local authorities have been encouraged to continue fostering relationships with community members to improve intelligence gathering and reduce support for insurgent activities.
The joint operation remains active as security forces conduct further investigations into the presence of Naxalite operatives in the region. Additional searches and patrols are planned to ensure that any remaining threats are neutralized and that the safety of the local populace is prioritized.
Local officials have expressed their gratitude for the collaborative efforts of various security agencies involved in the operation. They reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing security measures and urged community members to report any suspicious activities. "This operation reflects our determination to uphold law and order in the region and protect our citizens from the menace of Naxalism," a senior police official stated.
