Major Maoist Leader Misir Besra Captured in Jharkhand: What This Means for Security

In a significant development for law enforcement, Misir Besra, a notorious Maoist leader with a bounty exceeding Rs 1 crore, has been arrested in Jharkhand's Dhanbad district. Besra, wanted for multiple cases related to Maoist activities across various states, was captured during a police operation. This arrest comes on the heels of 16 Maoists surrendering to authorities, including a key figure with a substantial reward on his head. The implications of these events could have a profound impact on security measures in the region. Read on to discover more about this unfolding situation.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 29, 2026, 10:17 IST

Arrest of Notorious Maoist Leader

Ranchi: Misir Besra, a prominent Maoist leader with a reward of over Rs 1 crore on his head, has been apprehended in the Dhanbad district of Jharkhand, according to police reports.

Besra was implicated in numerous cases linked to Maoist activities across various states, including Jharkhand and Odisha, as stated by a police official.

The arrest took place in the Maniadih area, falling under the jurisdiction of the Barwadda police station, on Tuesday evening.

In addition to Besra, authorities also detained two other Maoists during the operation.

Earlier that same day, 16 Maoists surrendered to the Jharkhand Police, with six of them having a collective bounty of Rs 39 lakh.

Among those who surrendered was Santosh Mahto, also known as Basudev Da or Dilip, who was wanted in 128 cases and had a reward of Rs 15 lakh on his head.

The group included two members from the sub-zonal committee and two functionaries from the area committee.