Gadchiroli, Feb 6: A major blow was dealt to Naxalite operations in the Maharashtra-Chhattisgarh border region as security forces neutralized top commander Prabhakar and six other cadres. The operation, which concluded after seventy-two hours of active engagement in the dense forests of Gadchiroli, resulted in the recovery of several automatic firearms and significant tactical equipment.
Prabhakar, who led the West Sub-Zonal Bureau, was a key figure in the regional insurgency. Police officials mentioned that his elimination is a significant milestone for the C-60 special units. “The bodies of seven Maoists have been recovered along with three AK-47 rifles, one SLR, and one .303 rifle,” the police statement noted. While the identity of the other six Naxalites is being verified, the recovery of such weaponry indicates the high rank of the group.
The engagement began near Phodewada village after scouts reported the presence of the surviving cadres of Company No. 10. Despite the success of the mission, the Gadchiroli Police mourned the loss of Deepak Chinna Madavi, a resident of Mandra who died in the line of duty. He will be cremated with full state honors in his native village this Saturday.
Another commando, Joga Madavi, is currently recovering from bullet wounds sustained during the Thursday night encounter. Medical officials mentioned that his condition is stable. The C-60 units have intensified their vigil in the eastern Maharashtra region to ensure no further movement from neighboring Chhattisgarh-based formations.
