One Combat Battalion for Resolute Action (CoBRA) jawan was killed while another one was reportedly critically injured during a massive exchange of fire between the security forces and suspected CPI (Maoists) in the jungles of Pathalgada under Pirtand police station in Giridih.
Remarkably, the number of women Maoists was more than the men cadres and they were actively taking part in firing during the encounter.
"One of our jawans, Balan Harijan, 32, got killed during the gun battle which took place between the security forces and the CPI (Maoists) early in the morning on Friday. The team of security forces involved jawans of both State Police and the CoBRA," said IG (Operations) and Jharkhand Police spokesperson MS Bhatia. He, however, denied any other injury during the encounter.
The IG further added that Giridih police, acting on the basis of inputs that a group of 40-50 Maoists has been identified holding a meeting in the area, immediately launched extensive search operations under the leadership of SP Giridih. As soon as the security forces began heading towards the Maoists, they opened fire and the security forces also fired in retaliation, he said.
The police spokesman further added that a bullet blew out the middle of a jawan's face leaving him with grievous injuries.
"One bullet hit Constable Balan Harijan's face. Reportedly some of the Maoists have also been hit by our bullets," said Bhatia.
Following the incident, the IG said, extensive combing operations were being conducted to trace the Maoists. At least 40-50 rounds of bullets were fired from both sides and the encounter continued for over two hours.
The body of the CoBRA Jawan, has been sent to his native place after paying homage to him in the CRPF camp in Giridih.
Giridih SP Akhilesh Verier himself has been monitoring the combing operation.
Three CoBRA jawans were injured in April this year when Maoists detonated an improvised explosive device in the Parasnath hills to target a contingent of forces chasing them.