Khunti witnessed a major breakthrough in counter-insurgency efforts as PLFI’s top area commander, 30-year-old Habil Munda alias Prabhull Munda, laid down arms on Wednesday. Facing a government bounty of Rs 1 lakh, he voluntarily surrendered in the presence of DC R Ronita and SP Manish Toppo, signaling cracks within the banned outfit.
Hailing from Bamhani village in Murhu block, Prabhull’s criminal record boasts 22 cases involving violent extremism across multiple stations. His family, including wife Randay Kandir and infant son, stood by him during the emotional handover at the SP office.
Authorities recovered significant weaponry: two pistols (9mm and 7.65mm), a desi katta, 13 rounds of ammunition, and communication devices. This haul weakens PLFI’s operational capacity in Khunti’s forested terrains.
SP Toppo credited the success to relentless campaigns by state police and paramilitary units. “Combined with Jharkhand’s progressive surrender policy, these operations are compelling militants to abandon violence,” he noted. Internal strife, exploitation by leaders, and fear of encounters have accelerated defections.
The DC presented a ceremonial cheque and garland, pledging full rehabilitation assistance. “We will ensure their smooth reintegration into society,” she affirmed, urging others to follow suit.
Senior officers like SDPOs Varun Rajak and Christopher Kerketta witnessed the event, reflecting institutional commitment. As Jharkhand pushes for Naxal eradication, such surrenders illuminate a path from conflict to development, potentially inspiring more to choose peace over peril.