Intense Clash Between Security Forces and Maoists in Jharkhand's West Singhbhum

A fierce encounter erupted between security personnel and the squad of wanted Maoist Misir Besra in Jharkhand's West Singhbhum district on Wednesday, according to police officials.

The clash occurred early in the morning in a forest near Dalaigada village within the Chotanagra police station area.

Superintendent of Police Ashutosh Shekhar revealed that security forces initiated a massive search operation across forest regions under the Chotanagra and Manoharpur police stations on July 14. This was following intel on the movements of top Maoists, including Misir Besra, who has a bounty of Rs 1 crore on his head.

Shekhar confirmed, "The encounter took place with the squad of Misir Besra, who was in the vicinity during the gunfight."

As the police team approached, the Maoists opened fire around 5:50 am, prompting a retaliatory response from the forces.

The exchange of gunfire continued until the Maoists made a hasty retreat, leaving behind an assortment of weaponry and equipment, including an SLR, three magazines, a .303 rifle, a 9mm pistol, 174 SLR cartridges, 34 detonators, and a laptop.

(With inputs from agencies.)