Bhubaneswar, June 18: In a significant anti-Naxal operation, police in Odisha’s Kandhamal district uncovered a large cache of Maoist weapons, ammunition, and explosives. This operation took place on June 16, based on credible intelligence that led to an extensive search effort.
The police conducted a joint search operation in the areas of Sitaguda, Ganjuguda, Kutibarahi, Gudrikya, and Lanjam, covering the jurisdictions of the Kotagarh, Baliguda, and Tumudibandha police stations. The operation involved two teams from the Special Operations Group (SOG) and one team from the District Volunteer Force (DVF).
During the search, police teams located a hidden Maoist dump in the dense forests of the Kotagarh police area. A bomb disposal squad was summoned to the site to thoroughly inspect the area and mitigate any potential threats from improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Following the investigation, security forces recovered a substantial quantity of weapons, explosives, and other materials. The seized items included a .303 rifle, two 12-bore shotguns, two single-shot guns, an 8mm gun, a .303 magazine, 18 rounds of .303 cartridges, 10 rounds of 12-bore cartridges, 35 rounds of 8mm cartridges, 10 meters of codex wire, five electric detonators, along with various daily-use items and field equipment.
Authorities confirmed that the recovered weapons and explosives are linked to Maoist cadres. Despite the goal of declaring Kandhamal district completely Naxal-free by March 31, 2026, security forces continue to discover old Maoist dumps in remote forests.
Security agencies reported that joint teams from SOG, DVF, CRPF, and BSF are regularly conducting search and area domination operations. The aim is to locate hidden weapons and explosives, preventing any resurgence of Maoist activities.
Officials stated that this recovery is a testament to the vigilance and ongoing efforts of security forces, contributing to maintaining peace and security in the region.
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