Maharashtra ATS Captures Notorious Maoist with ₹10 Lakh Bounty

In a significant operation, the Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad has arrested a Maoist with a ₹10 lakh bounty in Thakurli, Thane. The suspect, Sanjay Sarju Yadav, was hiding from authorities for ten days. This arrest comes amid heightened Maoist activities in Jharkhand, prompting police to issue a statewide security alert. The investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected as authorities work to combat the Maoist threat in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Nov 7, 2026, 13:20 IST

Maharashtra ATS Takes Action Against Maoist Threat

Mumbai: The Maharashtra Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) successfully apprehended a Maoist who was wanted by the Jharkhand Police, with a reward of ₹10 lakh for his capture, in the Thakurli region of Thane district, as reported by officials on Saturday.

This operation was initiated after senior ATS personnel received intelligence indicating that a Maoist, sought by Jharkhand authorities, was hiding in Thakurli.

Upon receiving this information, the ATS directed the relevant unit to confirm the details and take necessary action.

Following verification, the Maharashtra ATS arrested Sanjay Sarju Yadav, also known as Godaram Yadav, who is 45 years old.

ATS officials revealed that Yadav hails from Devgan village, located within the jurisdiction of the Chhatarpur police station in Jharkhand's Palamu district.

He is believed to be a member of a Zonal Committee associated with a Maoist organization.

During interrogation, Yadav admitted to residing in Thakurli for the past ten days while evading law enforcement.

After his arrest, the Maharashtra ATS transferred him to the Jharkhand Police, who then formally charged him.

An investigation is currently in progress, with more information expected soon.

In response to recent increases in Maoist activities, the Jharkhand Police have issued a statewide security alert, instructing Superintendents of Police (SPs) to enhance surveillance.

Authorities have mandated increased vigilance across various districts following reports of renewed movements by CPI (Maoist) members.

Earlier in October, security forces eliminated sub-zonal commander Kunwar Manjhi, also known as Sahdeo Manjhi, in Jharkhand.

In July, 16 Naxalites surrendered in Ranchi, including regional commander Santosh Mahto, with a total bounty of ₹39 lakh.

Security forces are persistently working to dismantle the Maoist network in India. Earlier this year, Home Minister Amit Shah declared that India is largely free from Left-Wing Extremism (Naxalism) due to focused security operations and significant surrender initiatives.