Chhattisgarh’s security forces have achieved a major success in Bijapur district, neutralizing 18 Naxalites during a fierce encounter. The operation was initiated in the dense forests near the Bijapur-Dantewada border, following intelligence-led actions. The final toll of 18 Naxalites, including a significant Maoist commander, was confirmed after an extended operation. A large quantity of arms and ammunition, including sophisticated INSAS and AK-47 rifles, were recovered from the neutralized militants. Identified as Modiyam Vella, the slain commander was an active leader within the People’s Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) and had been involved in several past attacks, most notably the 2020 Minpa ambush that resulted in the deaths of 17 security personnel. Vella, who carried an Rs 8 lakh reward, was a prime target for law enforcement. The operation resulted in the tragic loss of three District Reserve Guard (DRG) personnel, with two others sustaining injuries. This year’s anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh have been highly effective, with 275 Naxalites neutralized. However, the ongoing conflict has also seen 23 security personnel make the ultimate sacrifice.
