A massive encounter erupted between security forces and Naxalites in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma district on Saturday (March 29), resulting in the elimination of at least 16 Naxals, Bastar Inspector General Sundarraj P confirmed. The intense gunfight broke out in a dense forest near the Kerlapal police station area, where security personnel were conducting an anti-Naxal operation based on intelligence inputs.
The operation, which began on Friday night (March 28), involved a joint team of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). Security forces launched a search mission following reports of Maoist presence, leading to an intermittent exchange of gunfire since early morning.
Authorities confirmed that bodies of 16 Naxalites have been recovered, and the operation remains ongoing. Two security personnel sustained minor injuries in the encounter and are receiving medical attention. Meanwhile, forces are sweeping the forested area for any remaining threats.
Sukma, known as a Naxal stronghold, has been the site of multiple deadly attacks in the past. On Friday, a jawan was injured in an IED blast planted by Maoists in Narayanpur district. Officials stated that the injured soldier, initially in critical condition, is now stable after receiving medical aid.
