A Sub Inspector (SI) from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) lost his life after sustaining serious injuries from an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast set off by Maoists in the dense forests of Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district on Saturday.
The blast also left another soldier wounded. Both injured personnel were airlifted to Ranchi and admitted to Raj Hospital for medical care. Unfortunately, Sub Inspector Sunil Kumar Mandal of the CRPF’s 193rd battalion passed away during treatment. Head Constable Parth Pratim Dey also suffered injuries in the incident.
The explosion took place on Saturday afternoon between 2:30 PM and 2:45 PM, during a search operation near the Marangpora forest area, falling under the jurisdiction of Chotanagra police station.
The blast was triggered by Naxal operatives, who had planted the IED in the region as part of their strategy to ambush security forces engaged in ongoing anti-Naxal operations. These operations, led by district and state police in coordination with CRPF battalions, aim to curb insurgent activities in sensitive areas like Tonto and the bordering Saranda forests.
Following the incident, security forces intensified search operations in the region to neutralize further threats. Additional reinforcements have been deployed to secure the area and prevent any further attacks. Senior police officials from Jharkhand, along with CRPF leadership, are closely monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of personnel engaged in the mission.
This incident underscores the persistent threat posed by Naxal insurgents in Jharkhand's remote regions. Despite sustained efforts by security agencies, Naxals continue to use guerrilla tactics, including IEDs, to target forces operating in their strongholds. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to counter-insurgency measures and ensure the restoration of peace in the affected areas.
The anti-Naxal operation remains ongoing, with security forces maintaining a high state of alert in the region.
