In a major breakthrough in the ongoing battle against Naxal insurgency, security forces have recovered and neutralized two explosive devices (EADs) planted by CPI (Maoist) cadres in the dense forest region between Vangram Diku Ponga and Hathna Bera under Chotanagra Police Station in the Kolhan division of Jharkhand. The operation, which has been in motion since March 4, 2025, was launched following credible intelligence on the movements of top Maoist leaders and their squad members in the region.
The Naxalite threat has resurfaced with reports of senior Maoist commanders, including Misir Besra, Anmol, Mochu, Anal, Asim Mandal, Ajay Mahato, Sagen Angaria, Ashwin, Pintu Lohara, Chandan Lohara, Amit Hansda alias Uptan, Jaikant, and Rapa Munda, actively operating in the Saranda and Kolhan forest areas. Intelligence inputs indicated their involvement in subversive activities, prompting authorities to deploy a special joint operation team comprising personnel from Chaibasa Police, Cobra 203 BN, 209 BN, Jharkhand Jaguar, and CRPF battalions 26 BN, 60 BN, 134 BN, 174 BN, 193 BN, and 197 BN.
In response to the Maoist movement, a well-coordinated security operation was launched, focusing on the border forest and hilly terrain around Chhotanagra and Jaraikela police station limits. These regions have long been considered a Maoist stronghold due to their dense forests and difficult topography, providing insurgents with an ideal environment for guerrilla warfare.
On March 30, 2025, security personnel uncovered two explosive devices that had been strategically planted by the Maoists to target security forces patrolling the area. Recognizing the potential threat to the safety of the forces and civilians, the bomb disposal squad promptly neutralized and destroyed the devices on-site. This swift action not only prevented possible casualties but also underscored the efficiency and preparedness of the security forces operating in the region.
The ongoing anti-Naxal operation is part of a broader strategy to curb Maoist activities in Jharkhand and ensure the safety of the local population. The presence of senior Maoist leaders in the region suggests renewed attempts to revive insurgent activities, making these operations critical to maintaining law and order.
The following security units played a key role in the successful execution of the operation: Chaibasa District Police, Jharkhand Jaguar, Cobra 209 BN, CRPF 193 BN, 197 BN.
Security forces remain on high alert, with search and combing operations continuing across the Saranda and Kolhan forests. Authorities believe that the presence of high-ranking Maoist leaders indicates a possible regrouping effort, and further operations are being planned to dismantle their network and neutralize their activities in the region.
Officials have urged local residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The government and security forces are committed to eliminating the Maoist threat and restoring peace in the affected areas. The successful detection and neutralization of explosive devices today serve as a testament to the relentless efforts of the security personnel dedicated to safeguarding the region from insurgent threats.
