THE JHARKHAND STORY DESK
Sukma, March 29: Security forces on Saturday eliminated 16 Naxals in an intense gunfight in the Kerlapal region of Sukma district.
A substantial cache of advanced weaponry, including AK-47 rifles, Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs), and INSAS rifles, was seized from the site.
Sukma Superintendent of Police Kiran Chavan confirmed the recovery of 16 bodies and described the encounter as one of the most significant operations in the district to date.
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He also stated that two security personnel sustained injuries and were being evacuated for medical treatment.
The clash erupted following a joint anti-Naxal mission launched by the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) based on intelligence reports about Naxal presence in the area.
The forces embarked on their search operation on March 28, with sporadic gunfire persisting since the early hours of March 29.
Authorities have yet to establish the identities of the slain Naxals, while security personnel continue to scour the encounter site and the surrounding dense forests.
