A major encounter between security forces and Maoists in Chhattisgarh’s southern Bastar region has resulted in the death of 14 Maoists on Saturday. The clash took place in the forests of Kistaram in Sukma district, where the District Reserve Guard (DRG) engaged with Naxal operatives. 

Sukma Superintendent of Police Kiran Chhavan confirmed that automatic weapons were recovered from the site, indicating that the Maoists were heavily armed.

Fresh Encounter in Bijapur District

Prior intelligence had indicated the presence of armed Maoists, prompting security forces to launch a search operation. A DRG team was deployed in the southern Bastar region, and intermittent firing began around 5 am. During the operation, two Maoists were confirmed killed, while the search for additional militants in the area is ongoing.

Search Operations and Area Security

Security agencies have cordoned off the entire region and deployed additional forces to assist in the operation. Intensive searches are underway to locate other Maoists hiding in the forests. Officials have stated that a detailed update regarding the encounter will be shared once the operation concludes.

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The encounter is being hailed as a significant success in the ongoing anti-Naxal campaign. Continuous intelligence gathering and strategic action by security forces have dealt a major blow to the Maoist network in southern Bastar. 

Authorities have emphasized that such operations will continue to restore peace in the region and effectively curb Naxal activities in the long term.