Three Naxalites Killed In Fierce Encounter With Security Forces In Gadchiroli Forest

Mumbai: Security forces killed three Naxalites during a major anti-insurgency operation in Maharashtra’s Gadchiroli district on Thursday. The encounter took place deep inside the Fodewada forest area, close to the Gadchiroli–Narayanpur border in the Bhamragad region, which is known for frequent Naxal movement.

According to officials, the gunfight broke out when a joint team of district police and elite C-60 commandos was carrying out a routine search operation based on intelligence inputs. The exchange of fire continued for several hours. During the operation, two police personnel were injured after being hit by bullets.

After the firing stopped, security forces launched an intensive combing operation in the forest. Two more bodies — one male and one female — were recovered later, confirming that a total of three Naxalites had been neutralised. The identities of the deceased are yet to be officially established.

Arms and ammunition were also seized from the encounter site, including one AK-47 rifle and two Self-Loading Rifles (SLRs). Officials said the recovery suggests the presence of a well-armed Naxal squad in the area.

The two injured C-60 commandos were airlifted to a hospital for urgent treatment. Their condition is reported to be stable, and they are under medical observation.