In an encounter between security forces and Naxal insurgents in Wandoli village, located on the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border, 12 Naxal cadres, including five women, have been killed. One Divisional Committee member, Laxman Atram, in charge of the Tipagad Dalam, has been identified as one of the dead Naxal. Further identification of the naxals and area searches are ongoing.
Superintendent of Police Neelotpal confirmed the deaths and said that the slain Maoists had been involved in various crimes, including arson, murder, and previous encounters.
“All armed formations and cadres in Uttar Gadchiroli have been neutralised by the police. Uttar Gadchiroli is now naxal-free” Neelotpal said.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has announced a cash reward of Rs. 51 lakh for the commandos and the Police in recognition of their successful operation. The operation involved seven C-60 units led by Deputy Superintendent of Police officers, who were deployed near the Chhattisgarh border in Wandoli village.
The encounter began on Wednesday afternoon and continued intermittently for six hours, resulting in the death of 12 Maoists. During the firefight, a police sub-inspector and a jawan sustained injuries. Both have been evacuated to Nagpur and are undergoing treatment.
The search operation led to the recovery of seven automatic weapons, including three AK-47s, two INSAS rifles, one carbine, and one SLR. Security forces have intensified search operations in the region and are closely monitoring the situation to prevent further incidents.