The Maoist party suffered a major setback after security forces killed two Maoists in an encounter in Bijapur district of Chhattisgarh. Among those killed was Paparao alias Mongu, a most wanted Maoist leader and a member of the Dandakaranya Special Zonal Committee.
Paparao played a key role as a strategist for Maoist activities in the South Bastar region. After the recent deaths of several senior Maoist leaders in encounters, he remained one of the top surviving leaders. Security agencies had intensified efforts to track his movements.
Joint operation by security forces
After receiving specific intelligence on Paparao’s movement, DRG, STF, and Cobra forces launched a joint operation in the forest area of Indravati National Park. During the operation, an exchange of fire took place, resulting in the death of Paparao and another Maoist.
Security officials confirmed that Paparao carried a reward of ₹1 crore. Forces recovered AK rifles and other weapons from the encounter site.
Search operation continues
Security forces have continued search and combing operations in the surrounding forest areas to ensure there are no remaining Maoist hideouts. Officials said the region remains under close surveillance.
Notably, Paparao had managed to escape from the same forest area last year during a similar operation. His death in the same region now marks a significant development in the ongoing anti-Maoist operations in Chhattisgarh.
Authorities believe the encounter will weaken Maoist activities in the South Bastar and Dandakaranya regions.
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