Major Blow to Maoists as Security Forces Continue Operations
In a significant development following the elimination of top Maoist commander Madvi Hidma, security forces have killed six additional Naxalites in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitarama Raju district. The encounter occurred on Wednesday morning as part of the ongoing operation that claimed Hidma's life just a day earlier.
Operation Details and Arrests
Additional Director General of Police Mahesh Chandra Laddha confirmed that the Maoists were neutralized during an exchange of fire involving the elite Greyhounds unit and local police. The police suspect that some of those killed on Wednesday might be among the fighters who managed to escape during Tuesday's encounter that resulted in Hidma's death.
In a parallel development, authorities have arrested at least 50 Maoists from various locations including Vijayawada city, Krishna, NTR, and Kakinada districts. According to ADGP Laddha, all those apprehended hail from Chhattisgarh and had escaped security forces before moving to different parts of Andhra Pradesh.
Intelligence operations played a crucial role in tracking the fleeing Maoists. "Our intelligence officers were keeping a watch over them. We used drones to conduct surveillance, and within two hours after the Hidma encounter, we took them into custody," Laddha stated.
Security Measures and Surrender Appeal
The police have implemented enhanced security protocols for political leaders, particularly those representing tribal areas. MLAs and MPs have been advised to take additional precautions amid concerns about potential retaliation for Hidma's elimination.
Of the 50 arrested Maoists, 27 belong to Hidma's battalion, while others are from various battalions of South Bastar. The police have reiterated their appeal for Maoists to surrender peacefully. "There is no need to be afraid. If there is a bounty on their heads, we will give them that reward as well as provide all the assistance to them to help them join the mainstream," Laddha emphasized.
Investigations reveal that the Maoists were attempting to regroup and move toward the Andhra Pradesh-Odisha border, a traditional stronghold for Naxal activities. Security forces remain on high alert as operations continue in the region.
