14 Maoists killed in twin encounters in Chhattisgarh’s Bastar

Security forces neutralise senior Maoist leaders in intelligence-based operations in Bastar region

January 3, 2026

Intelligence-based operation in Kistaram

At least fourteen Maoists were killed in two separate encounters with security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Sukma and neighbouring Bijapur district on Saturday morning, officials said, as anti-Naxal operations intensified across the Bastar region.

Of the fourteen, twelve Maoists were killed in Sukma district, while two were neutralised in Bijapur. Officials said the toll could rise as security forces continue extensive combing operations in the dense forest areas.

Sukma encounter targets senior Maoist leadership

The first encounter took place in the Kistaram area of Sukma, where security forces were conducting a search operation based on specific intelligence inputs. As the teams advanced through the forest, Maoists opened fire, triggering a fierce exchange of gunfire.

Among those killed is believed to be Sachin Mangdu of the Konta Area Committee, a senior Maoist leader. There are also reports that the Maoist commander involved in the killing of Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP) Akash Girpunje in Konta was neutralised during the operation.

Sources said the presence of several Divisional Committee Member (DVCM)-level cadres suggests that a high-level Maoist meeting or movement was underway when the security forces struck.

Arms recovered, identification underway

Sukma Superintendent of Police Kiran Chavan said formal identification of the Maoists would be possible only after the search teams return from the forest.

Security forces recovered AK-47 and INSAS rifles from the Sukma encounter site.

Bijapur operation continues

In a separate encounter in Bijapur district, security forces killed two Maoists and recovered one SLR and a 12-bore rifle, officials said. Search operations in the area are ongoing.

First encounter of the year

Saturday’s operations mark the first encounters between Maoists and security forces this year in Chhattisgarh. Both actions are part of an intensified anti-Naxal campaign in the Bastar region.

Last year, 285 Maoists were killed in encounters with security forces across the state, underscoring the sustained crackdown on Left-wing extremism.

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