Jamshedpur: Tension gripped the forested region of Saranda in West Singhbhum district after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) blast injured two CoBRA jawans during an ongoing anti-Naxal operation on Friday morning.
The joint operation, involving the Jharkhand Police, Chaibasa Police, and the elite CoBRA 209 battalion, was part of a larger combing and area domination strategy in known Naxal-affected pockets. The IED, suspected to have been planted by Naxals, exploded as the team advanced through a suspected danger zone.
“Two jawans of the CoBRA unit sustained injuries in the blast. They were given immediate first aid and have been airlifted to Ranchi for better treatment,” said a senior police official supervising the operation.
Preliminary reports indicate the jawans suffered splinter injuries, but are now in stable condition. Security forces suspect the presence of more hidden IEDs in the vicinity and are proceeding with extreme caution.
“We are intensifying the operation. Such cowardly acts will not deter our forces. We remain committed to clearing the region of extremist threats,” stated a spokesperson from Jharkhand Police Headquarters.
Local villagers have been urged to stay alert and report any suspicious activity, as forces continue sweeping the area for further explosives and Naxal hideouts.
“The terrain is challenging, and the risk is real, but our personnel are trained and prepared. Their courage and quick response have averted a larger tragedy,” said a senior CRPF officer.
