Security forces in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, eliminated two Maoist insurgents carrying a reward of 7 lakh rupees. Both Naxals were involved in multiple murders. Weapons and explosives were recovered from the site. Security forces recorded a significant success in the area.
Bijapur: Security forces have achieved a major success against Maoist insurgents in Bijapur, a Naxal-affected district of Chhattisgarh. In a joint search operation conducted by DRG, STF, and COBRA teams, two Naxals were killed, on whom a total reward of 7 lakh rupees was declared. These Maoists had been involved in several heinous crimes in the area recently.
Encounter Between Security Forces and Naxals in Bijapur
According to Bijapur SP Dr. Jitendra Kumar Yadav, security forces received intelligence about the presence of Naxals in the southwestern part of the district. A search operation was launched around 3 PM on September 17 in the forests of Mankeli. During this operation, security forces encountered the Naxals. Intense firing ensued from both sides.
Following the encounter, a search of the site revealed two Maoists had been killed. A .303 rifle, a BGL launcher, and explosive materials were recovered from them. This success brought relief to the security forces and local administration.
Identification of the Slain Naxals
The slain Naxals were identified as Raghu Hapka (33 years) and Sukku Hemla (32 years). Raghu Hapka was a member of the Gangalur Area Military Command and carried a declared reward of 5 lakh rupees. Sukku Hemla was the Deputy Commander of the Peddakorma RPC Militia Platoon and had a reward of 2 lakh rupees on his head.
Both Naxals were involved in spreading terror and intimidating local residents in villages like Peddakorma, Mankeli, Ganganur, and Torka in Bijapur district. Cases were also registered against them for the murder of an education worker, a student, and four villagers.
Improvement in Local Security
Police and security forces state that this encounter has caused a stir among the Naxals. Active Maoist commanders in the area have suffered a significant blow. This is reassuring news for local villagers, as the increasing number of violent incidents against teachers and villagers in several villages in recent months had created an atmosphere of fear.
Security forces have increased vigilance in the area and appealed to villagers to report any suspicious activities to the police immediately. This will strengthen security and law and order in the region.
IG Appeals to Naxals to Abandon Violence
Bastar Range IG Sundarraj P. stated that this success by the security forces is crucial for ensuring the safety and development of the region's citizens. He appealed to Naxal cadres to abandon the path of violence, avail themselves of the government's rehabilitation policy, and return to the mainstream to lead a respectable life.
The IG informed that the state government is running several welfare schemes for Maoist cadres, including opportunities for rehabilitation, employment, and education. He added that those who abandon violence and return to the mainstream will receive full security and social respect.
