An intense encounter between security personnel and Naxalites in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, has resulted in the demise of 10 Naxalites, according to police officials.
Inspector General of Police, Bastar Range, P Sundarraj, provided an update, stating, “The tally stands at 10 Naxal bodies, including nine males and one female. Recovered weaponry includes one LMG, one .303 rifle, one 12 bore, a substantial quantity of BGL launchers and shells, alongside other arms and ammunition.”
The identification of the deceased is pending, but it’s presumed they belong to PLGA Coy No 02, as stated by the Bastar IG.
Details surrounding the encounter are still emerging.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma disclosed that the encounter ensued following the murder of three villagers by Naxalites.
“Bodies of Naxals are being recovered following an encounter operation by security forces after the murder of three villagers by Naxalites,” stated Vijay Sharma.
The skirmish erupted around 6 am at Lendra village in Bijapur, following a joint search operation by the District Reserve Group (DRG), Special Task Force (STF), CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action), and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). The operation commenced Monday night from Gangalur police station area, as per police reports.
Bijapur district falls under the Bastar Lok Sabha constituency, slated for polling in the first phase of general elections on April 19.