Gadchiroli, July 18: In a significant operation, the Gadchiroli Police have shot down at least 12 Maoists during a fierce gun battle in the dense forests along the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border, a senior police officer confirmed on Wednesday.
Superintendent of Police Neelotpal detailed that the encounter unfolded in Wandoli village, close to the Chhattisgarh border, on Wednesday afternoon, extending over a gruelling six hours.
Acting on credible intelligence regarding the presence of 12-15 Maoists camping near the village, seven elite C-60 commando teams were deployed to the area around 10 a.m. A heavy exchange of gunfire ensued shortly after, persisting intermittently through the evening in the Pankhajur jungles.
Post-encounter searches led to the recovery of 12 Maoist bodies. The possibility of additional casualties remains under consideration.
Among the recovered weaponry were seven automatic firearms, including 3 AK-47s, 2 INSAS rifles, a carbine, and an SLR. The fallen Maoists included the notorious and wanted DVCM Laxman Atram, alias Vishal Atram, who was the in-charge of Tipagad Dalam.
During the clash, one PSI of the C-60 unit and one jawan sustained bullet injuries. Both were airlifted to Nagpur, where they are reported to be in stable condition.
In recognition of the successful operation, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who also oversees the Home portfolio, has announced a cash reward of Rs 51 lakh for the C-60 Commandos and the Gadchiroli Police.
