Daijiworld Media Network- Ranchi 

Ranchi, May 24: In a significant success for the security forces, two dreaded Maoists — including Jharkhand Jan Mukti Parishad (JJMP) supremo Pappu Lohra — were gunned down in an intense encounter in the Ichabar forests of Latehar district early Saturday morning.

The encounter, which also claimed the life of his close aide Prabhat Lohra, marks a major breakthrough in the ongoing crackdown on Maoist activities in the region. A third Maoist is believed to have been killed in the gunfight, although his body is yet to be recovered, police officials said.

The operation was launched after Latehar Superintendent of Police Kumar Gaurav received credible intelligence suggesting that a group of JJMP Maoists was hiding in the dense forest, reportedly plotting a major strike in the area.

Acting swiftly, a joint team of security personnel cordoned off the region and began a combing operation. As the search intensified, the Maoists opened fire, prompting the forces to retaliate with precision.

In the ensuing gun battle, Pappu Lohra and Prabhat Lohra were neutralised. One constable, Awadh Singh, sustained injuries and has been admitted to Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ranchi, where his condition is reported to be stable.

Palamu DIG Y. S. Ramesh confirmed the recovery of the two bodies and stated that a thorough search operation is underway to track down any remaining militants in the area.

The JJMP has been particularly active in Latehar and its adjoining districts and has been on the radar of security agencies for its role in several violent incidents and extortion activities.

Notably, this comes just a day after two other Maoists were neutralised by the forces in a separate operation, signalling an intensified offensive by the police against the outlawed group.

Security officials hailed the operation as a critical step toward restoring peace and order in the Maoist-affected belt of Jharkhand.