A resounding success in Jharkhand’s war on Naxals: 17 rebels lay dead after ferocious exchanges in West Singhbhum’s forested Kolhan-Saranda belt, with elite units claiming top prizes like Rs 1 crore Maoist chief Anlal alias Patiram Manjhi. Coordinated by Jharkhand Police, CoBRA 209, CRPF, and Jaguars under senior leadership, the action underscores tactical prowess.
Credible intel flagged Anlal, Anmol, and their squad scouting violence in Kumdih-Bahda vicinities of Chhotanagara thana. The proactive raid ignited multiple clashes across January 22-23, as Naxals sprayed bullets wildly while forces upheld restraint and efficacy in retaliation.
Adhering to SOPs, follow-up probes netted the slain, a treasure trove of AK/AKM, INSAS, .303 rifles, vast ammo, and camp materials. Fatalities spanned Anmol (Rs 25 lakh), Amit Munda (Rs 15 lakh), Pintu Lohra, Laljit, Samir Sorren, Rapa, and sundry cadres, eviscerating command structures.
Building on prior gains—183 arrests and 11 kills in three years—this eliminates a key threat, portending reduced insurgent sway in Saranda. Development corridors could soon flourish unhindered.
In a humane outreach, Jharkhand Police invited holdouts to quit arms via the government’s surrender policy, offering rehabilitation and mainstream integration. Such operations herald a safer, thriving future for the state.