Dumka (Jharkhand) Jan 14 (IANS): Top Maoist commander Sahdev Rai was on Sunday killed in a shootout with Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB) in Chhatupara forest area in Dumka district of Jharkhand, the paramilitary force said.
The fierce gun-battle began at around 6.55 a.m when a group of 15-20 Maoists opened fire on the SSB team, comprising 42 personnel, which was on combing operation in the forest based on specific inputs.
The shootout lasted around 90 minutes leading to the death of Rai, who carried a bounty of Rs 10 lakh on his head, SSB Spokesperson Kanishk Chaudhary said.
According to the officer, Rai had links with Santhal Pargana Zone -- an infamous Maoist group in the state.
"We have seized several arms and ammunition during search operation. No injury occurred on our side," Chaudhary said.