Massive arms cache uncovered in Maoist stronghold of Parasnath hills in Jharkhand

THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK

Ranchi, May 16: In a significant operation on Friday, security forces in Giridih district unearthed a substantial cache of arms and explosives hidden by Maoist insurgents in the dense forests of Parasnath Hills. Acting on intelligence inputs, a joint team comprising the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and local police conducted a Search and Destroy Operation (SADO) near Jokai Nala and Gardi, areas known for Maoist activity.

Details of the Operation

The operation was led by officers from CRPF’s 154 Battalion and the Giridih police. The team discovered a synthetic water tank buried underground, which concealed a variety of weapons and explosive materials. The recovered items include:

• Eight .303 bolt-action rifles
• One factory-made 12-bore double-barrel shotgun
• Four country-made .315 bore rifles
• One 7.62mm Self-Loading Rifle (SLR) with magazine
• Two large wire cutters
• Three magazine pouches and one pistol pouch
• Eight electric detonators with wires
• Eight .303 caliber rounds and six charger clips
• One rifle gauge
• Fourteen bundles of Cordex wire
• Two bags of explosives
• Thirty-eight 7.62mm rounds and ten 9mm rounds
• Three fillers and nine KF 8mm rounds
• 2.5 liters of nitrobenzene
• Two country-made pistols, including one semi-automatic
• One STC-700 radio set

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Strategic Significance of Parasnath Hills

Parasnath Hills, rising to 1,365 meters, is the highest peak in Jharkhand and holds religious significance for both Jain and tribal communities. However, its dense forests and rugged terrain have long been exploited by Maoist insurgents as a strategic hideout. The area has witnessed several Maoist-related incidents, including the locking up of a Jain temple by Maoists in 2014 and the killing of a CoBRA jawan in an encounter in 2016.

Ongoing Efforts to Curb Insurgency

The recent operation underscores the persistent efforts by security forces to dismantle Maoist infrastructure in the region. Authorities believe that the recovered arms and explosives were intended for attacks on security personnel and strategic locations. The presence of high quantities of explosives and detonators suggests plans for ambushes or sabotage operations .

The state government has also initiated development plans for Maoist-affected areas, aiming to address core issues and draw local youths towards self-development This successful operation marks a significant step in restoring peace and stability in the Maoist-affected regions of Jharkhand.