CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: The death count in the recent Maoist-related encounter in Bijapur district has climbed to 18 after security forces recovered six additional bodies during an intensified search operation. The recovery follows a fierce gun battle between security personnel and Maoist insurgents in the dense forested region, an area long known for extremist activity and frequent clashes.
According to officials, combing operations were expanded after initial reports indicated the possibility of more casualties on the Maoist side. The discovery of the new bodies confirms that the encounter was one of the most significant anti-Maoist operations conducted in the region in recent months. Security forces continue to maintain a heightened presence, aiming to prevent any regrouping attempts by Maoist cadres.
Authorities have also deployed additional teams to ensure that the area is thoroughly scanned for weapons, explosives, or potential hideouts used by insurgents. Meanwhile, intelligence agencies are analyzing the incident to assess whether any senior Maoist leaders were among the dead.
The rising toll underscores the ongoing intensity of counter-insurgency efforts in south Bastar and highlights the persistent challenges faced by security forces as they attempt to dismantle Maoist strongholds in Chhattisgarh’s conflict-prone regions.
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