Chhattisgarh: 18 Naxalites Killed in Major Bijapur Encounter

A significant anti-Naxal operation in Chhattisgarh's Bijapur district has resulted in the elimination of 18 Maoists, including a key commander. The fierce encounter took place in the forested areas bordering Bijapur and Dantewada districts following a coordinated security force operation. Initially, reports indicated 12 Naxalites were killed, but authorities later confirmed the recovery of six additional bodies. A substantial quantity of weapons, including INSAS and AK-47 rifles, was seized from the deceased rebels. Among those neutralized was Modiyam Vella, a company commander within the People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA), known for his involvement in previous deadly attacks, including the 2020 Minpa ambush that resulted in the loss of 17 security personnel. Vella carried a reward of Rs 8 lakh. The operation, however, came at a tragic cost, with three District Reserve Guard (DRG) personnel losing their lives and two others sustaining injuries. This year's operations have seen security forces neutralize 275 Naxalites across Chhattisgarh, with a significant number in the Bastar region. Conversely, 23 security personnel have been martyred in anti-Naxal operations statewide this year.