In a significant breakthrough, police and paramilitary forces operating in the Naxal-infested Tonto Thana area of West Singhbhum district successfully detected and neutralized three improvised explosive devices (IEDs) on Tuesday evening. The discovery of these explosives, planted strategically along the hilly tracks between Sarjomburu and Maradiri jungles, dealt a severe blow to the insurgents operating in the region.

The IEDs, weighing two kilograms, six kilograms, and ten kilograms respectively, were intended to target paramilitary forces engaged in anti-insurgency operations in the area. Prompt action by the paramilitary forces led to the swift deployment of a bomb disposal squad, resulting in the safe detonation of all three explosive devices on the spot.

Speaking about this significant achievement, Superintendent of Police, West Singhbhum, Ashutosh Shekhar emphasized the gravity of the situation, highlighting the potential devastation that could have ensued had the 10-kilogram IED remained undetected. This successful operation underscores the dedication and efficiency of the police and paramilitary forces in combating insurgency and safeguarding civilian lives.

It is noteworthy that the police and paramilitary forces have been actively pursuing a special drive to eliminate Naxal leaders such as Misir Besra, Analda, Mochu, Ajay Mahto, Kandey, Chaman, Sagen Angaria, and Aswin, who have taken refuge in the Tonto and Goelkera Thana areas since January last year. These Naxal leaders have resorted to planting an unspecified number of IEDs across strategic locations in the forest area to evade capture.

During this period, three paramilitary jawans and over two dozen innocent villagers have tragically lost their lives in IED blasts triggered by Naxals. The detection and neutralization of these explosive devices underscore the ongoing efforts of security forces to maintain law and order and ensure the safety and security of the region's inhabitants.