Daijiworld Media Network - Raipur

Raipur, Oct 1: In a major strike against Maoist insurgency in Chhattisgarh, the elite Cobra 208 Battalion of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) uncovered a massive stockpile of explosives and tactical gear during a patrol operation in the dense forests near Kanchal village, under Police Station Pamed in Bijapur district.

The discovery was made during a routine search operation as part of ongoing anti-Naxal efforts. Hidden in a camouflaged underground pit in the forested Kauragutta area, the cache included a range of high-powered explosives and materials suspected to be part of a larger Maoist plan to launch coordinated attacks.

According to officials, the quick response and alertness of the Cobra unit likely prevented a major assault. Among the recovered items were powerful substances like RDX, gunpowder, BGL cells and ammunition, grenades, Cardex wire, and both electric and non-electric detonators. Additionally, improvised weapons like arrow bombs and components typically used in IEDs—including iron rods, firecrackers, and steel parts—were also seized.

Beyond explosives, the forces also uncovered extensive logistical supplies, including solar inverters, lithium batteries, copper wire spools, steel containers, plastic drums, pipes, and fabrication tools like iron files and steel plates.

Security personnel also recovered Maoist uniforms, combat gear with cobra-style camouflage, backpacks, and distinct coloured cloths used for identification—suggesting plans for a major mobilisation or attack on high-value targets, possibly security installations or critical public infrastructure.

Officials linked the find to Operation Sankalp, a statewide campaign launched in April aimed at dismantling Maoist influence in the region. The operation has already resulted in the neutralisation of key Maoist leaders and the capture of several arms caches.

This latest success not only highlights the Cobra battalion’s effective jungle warfare capabilities and real-time intelligence coordination but also reiterates the ongoing threat posed by Maoist factions in the Bastar region. It also reinforces the government’s objective of eradicating Left-Wing Extremism from the state by March 2026.

Authorities have commended the Cobra 208 Battalion for its swift and precise action, which likely thwarted a deadly Maoist offensive and dealt a serious blow to insurgent operations in southern Chhattisgarh.