18 Naxals Killed, Top Leader Among Dead in Chhattisgarh Encounter

Raipur: In a significant development, a joint operation carried out by the Border Security Force (BSF) and the District Reserve Guard (DRG) resulted in the killing of at least 18 Naxals, including a high-ranking leader, Shankar Rao, in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district. Rao, who carried a reward of Rs 25 lakh on his head, was among those neutralized in the operation, confirmed police sources.

The operation, centred in the Maad area, saw intense clashes between the security forces and the Naxal insurgents. Superintendent of Police Kalyan Ellisela reported that a substantial quantity of arms, notably four AK-47 rifles, was seized during the operation, further signifying the significance of the encounter.

Unfortunately, three soldiers sustained injuries during the exchange of fire. However, the prompt deployment of additional forces aimed at rescuing the injured personnel showcased the authorities’ commitment to ensuring the safety of their personnel.

While the immediate aftermath has seen the recovery of 18 bodies, authorities have hinted at the possibility of more casualties among the Naxals.