IN a major success for security forces engaged in anti-Naxal operations in Chhattisgarh, a massive cache of explosives, weapons and logistical equipment was recovered from an underground bunker concealed in the forests of Bijapur district on Monday. The recovery was made during a joint search operation conducted by personnel of the Pidia Police Assistance Centre and Gangaloor police in the Doditumnar Patelpara forest area under Gangaloor police station limits. The operation was launched following specific intelligence inputs regarding Maoist movement and the presence of hidden stockpiles in the area. During the intensive search, security personnel discovered a concealed underground bunker allegedly used by Maoists for storing operational materials and equipment.

 

After carrying out thorough security checks and demining procedures, the forces recovered a large quantity of explosive-related materials and machinery from the site. The seized items included two Honda generators, two lathe machines, an inverter, four batteries, one small battery, eight solar panels, a motor, a welding machine, a drilling machine, a country-made BGL launcher, 29 BGL shells, nearly 50 metres of cordex wire and two plastic drums. Police officials termed the recovery a significant blow to Maoist infrastructure in the south Bastar region, stating that the materials were suspected to have been intended for manufacturing explosives and supporting insurgent operations in the dense forest terrain. Further investigation is in progress and legal action is being initiated in connection with the seizure.