In a significant breakthrough in the ongoing fight against Naxal extremism, a 1.5 kg Improvised Explosive Device (IED) was recovered and safely defused by security forces during a coordinated operation in the forest areas under Goilkera Police Station limits in West Singhbhum district. The IED, likely planted by Maoist insurgents to target security personnel, was detected near the forested stretches of Esarikhamda and Kharkichu—regions known for insurgent activities.
The recovery comes as part of an intensified anti-Naxal campaign involving multiple security agencies. The joint operation, launched on April 23, 2025, includes personnel from the district police, Jharkhand Jaguar, and various battalions of the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF)—namely the 26 BN, 60 BN, 134 BN, 174 BN, 193 BN, and 197 BN. Together, these units have formed a strong operational network to monitor and dismantle Maoist influence across the Kolhan division.
Senior officials report that the initiative is being guided by intelligence inputs indicating the presence and strategic movements of CPI (Maoist) cadres under the leadership of Fimlis Besra, a prominent Maoist commander. The objective is to reassert control in areas vulnerable to extremist infiltration and to prevent the resurgence of insurgent networks in remote forest zones.
The IED was located during a search operation carried out by specially trained units. It was skillfully defused by the bomb disposal squad, with the support of CRPF and local police teams. Security forces stated that the early detection and disposal of the device prevented a potential ambush, highlighting the alertness and coordination among the personnel.
Officials involved in the operation emphasized the importance of proactive measures in neutralizing threats before they escalate. “Recovering an IED of this magnitude is a clear reminder that the threat is real and active. However, our coordinated response demonstrates the preparedness of our forces,” said a senior police official on the ground.
The ongoing combing operation is part of a broader, sustained effort to stabilize the region and ensure the safety of local residents. Villages in and around the operation zones are being sensitized and patrolled regularly to prevent the spread of fear and misinformation.
Authorities have confirmed that the anti-Naxal operation will continue in the coming days, with additional surveillance, foot patrols, and intelligence-gathering planned across other parts of the region. The administration has also urged local communities to cooperate with the forces and report any suspicious activity.
