3 Naxals Killed in Jharkhand Encounter as Forces Launch Major Operation

Three Naxalites were killed in an intense gunfight with security forces in Jharkhand’s Gumla district early Saturday morning. The clash happened in the Ghagra region, an area known for regular Naxalite activity. Police said the three killed were part of the Jharkhand Jan Mukti Parishad (JJMP), a group that broke away from the banned CPI(Maoist) outfit.

Jharkhand Police Inspector General (Operations), Michael S Raj, confirmed the ongoing nature of the mission and said more details would be given once the search operation is completed.

Joint Operation Based on Tip-Off

A team of Jharkhand Police and CRPF launched a joint operation after receiving intelligence about armed Naxal movement in the area. When the forces approached, the rebels opened fire. The encounter turned into a heavy exchange of bullets. Luckily, no injuries were reported among the security forces during the action.

Earlier Encounter in Bokaro Raised Concerns

This operation in Gumla happened just ten days after a deadly face-off in Bokaro district. On July 16, a top Maoist leader with a ₹5 lakh reward on his head and a CRPF jawan were killed during a raid in the Birhordera forest near Gomia. In that clash, a local villager also lost his life after being mistaken for a Maoist during the chaos.

That incident reminded the authorities of the continuing danger of Maoist violence in Jharkhand. The Maoist killed was considered a high-ranking rebel, and his death was a serious blow to the insurgent group’s strength in that region.

Security Forces Ramp Up Pressure in Maoist Zones

Over the past few months, anti-Naxal drives have been stepped up across Jharkhand. Districts like Latehar, Lohardaga, Gumla, and Chatra have seen many such encounters. Weapons, explosives, and Maoist leaflets were found in several operations, showing signs that the rebels are still recruiting and trying to stay active. Police and paramilitary forces believe that solid intelligence and constant pressure are key to weakening the remaining rebel bases. Saturday’s successful strike in Gumla is seen as part of that wider effort to break the hold of Naxal forces. After the encounter, local patrols were increased to avoid any possible revenge attacks from the Naxals.