As naxals lay deep, how security forces went deeper and gunned down 14

Raipur, Aug 6: It was a major boost for the security forces who gunned down 14 naxalites following a combing and search operation near a forest village between Gollappalli and Konta in Sukma district, Chhattisgarh.

These areas are normally quite at this time of the year. The naxalites usually stay deep in the jungles and do not attempt venturing out due to poor navigation. With the rivers flooded, naxalites avoid moving too much.

However, the security forces had specific instruction about the presence of these naxalites. With the naxalites pushing backwards, the forces decided to step up the operations.

Instead, the forces decided to go deep into the forests. There was exchange of fire when the naxalites came face to face, but the forces were better prepared and took down 14.

While the naxalites tend to take away the bodies following an encounter, the security forces have however managed to retrieve all 14 bodies. Additionally, firearms too have been recovered, police officials confirmed.

The operation was carried out after specific intelligence was provided to the security forces. The operation was carried out by the Special Task Force, CRPF and the District Reserve Guards.

Addressing the media, Special DG DM Awasthi confirmed that 14 bodies were recovered in the encounter. He also added that two Maoists have been arrested. One of them is Deva, an area committee member who carries a bounty of Rs five lakh and another is a woman Maoist has been shot in the leg.