Two Maoists Captured in Odisha: What Led to Their Arrest?

Maoist Arrests in Malkangiri District

Malkangiri: In the early hours of Friday, police apprehended two Maoists in the Malkangiri district of Odisha, as reported by local authorities.

The arrested individuals, identified as Kesakawasi and Rakesh, also known as Sanukunjam, were members of the CPI (Maoist) area committee and originated from Chhattisgarh. Each had a reward of Rs 5 lakh for their capture.

The duo was taken into custody in the forests of Sadhieguda and Tentuliguda within the Mathili police jurisdiction after a brief exchange of gunfire, according to police statements.

A special operation was initiated by the district police on Thursday night, leading to the discovery of a group of Maoists attempting to escape into the forest.

"Upon spotting them, the police team urged the Maoists to surrender. However, the suspects responded by firing at the officers and fleeing deeper into the jungle," an officer explained.

"In retaliation, the police returned fire. Following a thorough search of the area, the two Maoists were captured after a confrontation with security forces, while others managed to evade arrest," he added.

Authorities recovered a revolver, six rounds of ammunition, and explosives from the arrested individuals, as confirmed by Superintendent of Police Vinod Patil.