Chaibasa: A fierce gun battle has been underway since Thursday morning between security forces and CPI (Maoist) Naxalites deep inside the dense and inhospitable Saranda forest of West Singhbhum district, sending shockwaves across the region.
According to preliminary inputs, at least four Naxalites are believed to have been killed in the encounter, though official confirmation is awaited as the operation continues. Security sources stated that intermittent firing has been heard since early morning, indicating the intensity and scale of the clash.
Encounter Near Kumbadih Village
The exchange of fire is reported to have taken place near Kumbadih village under the Chhotanagra police station area. The Saranda forest, notorious for long-standing Maoist presence due to its thick forest cover, hilly terrain, and poor accessibility, has long posed a challenge for security agencies. These conditions have necessitated a highly cautious and strategic approach during the ongoing operation.
Naxalites Open Fire During Search Operation
Sources revealed that the encounter erupted when Naxalites suddenly opened fire on security forces during an anti-Naxal search operation. The forces retaliated swiftly, leading to an intense exchange of gunfire that has continued for several hours.
DIG Kolhan Confirms Encounter
Confirming the development, DIG Kolhan Anuranjan Kispotta said that an encounter between security forces and Maoists has indeed taken place in the Saranda area. He emphasized that detailed information will be shared only after the operation is concluded, maintaining operational confidentiality. No official statement has yet been issued regarding casualties on either side.
Reports of Top Maoist Commander Killed
Unconfirmed reports have also fueled speculation that a senior Maoist commander carrying a reward of ₹50 lakh may have been neutralized in the encounter. However, both the police and the CRPF have refrained from validating these claims so far.
High Alert, Area Sealed
As the operation remains ongoing, the entire Saranda region has been cordoned off, and additional security forces have been deployed to prevent Maoist escape or reinforcements. A high alert has been issued across adjoining areas to ensure there are no security lapses.
Parallel Action Against Illegal Timber Smuggling
In a related development, the Forest Department has launched a major crackdown on illegal timber smuggling in Saranda, seizing 63 sal logs during a separate operation. Officials believe the illegal timber trade has often been used to fund extremist activities, making the crackdown a significant step toward weakening the Naxal support network.
As firing continues and security forces tighten their grip, the Chaibasa–Saranda encounter is being closely monitored and is expected to mark a crucial turning point in Jharkhand’s sustained fight against Left-Wing Extremism.
