Security forces have made a significant recovery of explosives and other materials following a search operation in the Saranda-Kolhan region, targeting top leaders of the banned CPI (Maoist) outfit. The joint operation was conducted by Chaibasa Police, COBRA battalions 203 and 209, Jharkhand Jaguar, and CRPF battalions 26, 60, 134, 174, 193, and 197.
Since 2022, continuous joint operations have been conducted in the border areas of several villages under Goilkera and Tonto police station limits, including Kuiḍa, Chhota Kuiḍa, Maradiri, Meralgara, Hathiburu, Tilaybeda, Boypaisang, Katamba, Bayhatu, Boroy, Lemsaḍih, Husipi, Rajabasa, Tumbahaka, Regra, Patatorb, Goburu, and Luiya.
Acting on intelligence that CPI (Maoist) insurgents had hidden arms and explosives in the dense forested and hilly areas of Tonto, a search operation was launched on March 28 in Sarjamburu and Jimkikir forest villages. During the search, security forces discovered a Maoist dump containing a large quantity of explosives meant to target security personnel.
Recovery Details: Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs): 28 pieces, Detonators: 23 pieces, Urea: 25 kg, Gunpowder: 1 kg Switches: 50 pieces, Cordex Wire: 250 meters, Safety Fuse: 150 meters , Sintex Tank: 1 piece and Other daily-use items .
The explosives were neutralized by the bomb disposal squad as a precautionary measure, and the Maoist dump was destroyed. The recovered materials were seized as per legal procedures.
The security forces, comprising personnel from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Jharkhand Police, and specialized anti-Naxal units, have been conducting extensive combing operations to dismantle insurgent hideouts. Intelligence inputs have played a crucial role in these operations, leading to significant breakthroughs, including the seizure of arms, ammunition, and explosives from suspected Naxal camps.
Officials have reported multiple encounters between security personnel and Naxalite groups, resulting in the neutralization of several insurgents. The heightened security measures are also aimed at preventing fresh recruitment into Naxal ranks by engaging with local communities and launching awareness campaigns to dissuade youth from joining extremist groups.
As part of the crackdown, authorities have enhanced surveillance using drone technology and satellite imaging to track Naxal movement in hard-to-reach terrains. Additionally, road connectivity projects and welfare initiatives in affected areas are being expedited to undermine insurgent influence and provide alternative livelihoods to the local population.
Despite these intensified efforts, challenges remain, as the insurgents continue to exploit the rugged landscape and dense forests to evade capture. Security experts stress the need for a multi-faceted approach, combining tactical operations with socio-economic development initiatives to achieve long-term peace and stability in the region.
The state government, in collaboration with the central agencies, has reaffirmed its commitment to eradicating Naxalism from Jharkhand. Residents have been urged to cooperate with security forces and report any suspicious activity as efforts to restore law and order continue.
