A significant anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur district has resulted in the elimination of at least 18 Naxalites, including a prominent commander. The intense encounter unfolded in the dense forests bordering Bijapur and Dantewada districts. Security forces launched the operation, leading to a fierce exchange of gunfire. Initially, 12 Maoists were reported dead, but further searches on Thursday revealed six more bodies, bringing the total to 18. The forces also seized a substantial amount of weaponry, including AK-47 and INSAS rifles, from the deceased rebels. Among the neutralized Naxalites was Modiyam Vella, a key commander within the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA). Vella was identified as a high-value target, wanted for involvement in several deadly attacks, including the 2020 Minpa ambush where 17 security personnel lost their lives. He carried a reward of Rs 8 lakh on his head. Tragically, the operation also resulted in the loss of three brave personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG) in Bijapur. Two other DRG members sustained injuries during the intense firefight. This successful operation contributes to a broader trend, with security forces neutralizing 275 Naxalites in Chhattisgarh this year alone, underscoring the ongoing efforts to combat left-wing extremism in the region. However, the sacrifices of security personnel in these operations also highlight the persistent challenges.
