A major security operation in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district has resulted in the elimination of 18 Maoist cadres, including a prominent commander. The intense exchange of fire occurred deep within the forest near the Bijapur-Dantewada border, following a coordinated anti-Naxal operation. Initially, reports indicated 12 fatalities, but authorities later confirmed the recovery of six additional bodies, bringing the total to 18.
The neutralized Maoists were found with a significant haul of weaponry, including AK-47 and INSAS rifles, along with substantial ammunition. Among the deceased was Modiyam Vella, identified as an active commander within the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA), Company No. 2. Vella was reportedly involved in several deadly attacks, including the 2020 Minpa ambush which tragically cost the lives of 17 security personnel. He carried a bounty of Rs 8 lakh on his head.
Tragically, the security forces sustained losses as well. Three brave personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG) in Bijapur – Head Constable Monu Vadadi, Constable Dukaru Gonde, and Jawan Ramesh Sodhi – were martyred during the operation. Two other DRG members sustained injuries and are receiving medical attention.
This year, Chhattisgarh has seen a significant increase in anti-Naxal operations, with security forces neutralizing approximately 275 Maoists. The Bastar region alone accounts for a substantial portion of these successes. While these operations are yielding results, they also highlight the ongoing challenges and sacrifices made by security forces in combating insurgency.