An encounter between security forces and Naxals in Wandoli village on the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border has resulted in the deaths of 12 Naxal cadres, including 5 women. One Divisional Committee member, Laxman Atram, who was in charge of the Tipagad Dalam, has been identified as among the deceased Naxals. Further identification of the Naxals and area searches are ongoing.
Superintendent of Police Neelotpal of Gadchiroli said that various crimes, including encounters, arson, and murder, had been registered against the deceased Maoists. He also said that all armed formations and cadres in Uttar Gadchiroli have been neutralised by the police. Further, Neelotpal said that after the operation, “Uttar Gadchiroli is now Naxal-free.”
Additionally, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a cash reward of Rs. 51 lakhs for the C60 commandos and Gadchiroli Police for successfully conducting the operation.
Earlier, seven C-60 parties led by Deputy Superintendent of Police officers were deployed near the Chhattisgarh border in Wandoli village. On July 17, an encounter broke out between the Maharashtra Police C-60 team and Maoist insurgents in the forest area between Chhindbhatti and PV-82 in the border area of Kanker.
A heavy exchange of fire began on Wednesday afternoon and continued intermittently for six hours. The resulting firefight resulted in the deaths of 12 Naxal cadres. One police sub-inspector (PSI) and one jawan who sustained injuries are now out of danger, evacuated, and shifted to Nagpur and are undergoing treatment there.
During the area search, security forces recovered seven automotive weapons, including three AK-47s, two INSAS rifles, one carbine, and one SLR. Security forces have intensified search operations in the region as they continue to closely monitor the situation.