A significant anti-insurgency operation in the dense Saranda forests of West Singhbhum, Jharkhand, has reportedly led to the neutralization of 16 extremists. The encounter took place in the Kumdi area, which falls under the jurisdiction of the Kiriburu and Chotanagra police stations. Security forces launched the operation following credible intelligence regarding the gathering of a large Maoist squad in the region. As the tactical teams approached the suspected hideout, the insurgents opened heavy fire, leading to a prolonged gunbattle. Sources within the security agencies confirm that the casualties on the rebel side include at least one high-ranking Maoist carrying a substantial reward. The area has been cordoned off, and additional units have been deployed to conduct a thorough search of the difficult terrain. This operation is considered one of the most successful strikes against Left-Wing Extremism in recent years within the state, significantly denting the tactical capabilities of the local insurgent groups.
