In a significant blow to left-wing extremism, the Andhra Pradesh Police has conducted a massive multi-district operation resulting in the arrest of 50 Maoists. The coordinated crackdown represents one of the most substantial anti-naxalite operations in the state's recent history.
Major Encounter Eliminates Top Commander
The arrests coincided with a crucial encounter that took place on November 18, 2025 at Maredumilli in Alluri Seetharam Raju district. During this intense firefight, security forces eliminated top naxalite commander M Hidma along with five other Maoists. Hidma was considered one of the most wanted and dangerous Maoist leaders operating in the region.
Multi-District Operation Details
The police operation spanned across several districts in Andhra Pradesh, demonstrating the widespread nature of the crackdown. While specific district names weren't provided in the initial report, the coordinated effort suggests intelligence-led operations across Maoist-affected areas of the state.
Fifty Maoist cadres were taken into custody during these synchronized raids. The arrested individuals include both mid-level commanders and ground-level operatives, significantly weakening the Maoist organizational structure in the region.
Impact on Naxalite Activities
The elimination of commander M Hidma and the mass arrests deal a devastating blow to Maoist operations in Andhra Pradesh. Security analysts believe this operation will disrupt planned attacks and weaken the recruitment capabilities of the banned organization.
The timing of these operations suggests enhanced intelligence gathering and improved coordination between different police units across districts. This successful crackdown comes as part of the state government's ongoing efforts to combat left-wing extremism and restore peace in affected regions.
Police officials have described this as a landmark achievement in their anti-naxalite campaign, though they remain vigilant about potential retaliatory actions from remaining Maoist elements.
