12 maoists killed, one officer injured in Maharashtra encounter; search operation ongoing

A confrontation between police forces and Maoists in the dense forests of Gadchiroli district, Maharashtra, resulted in the deaths of 12 Maoists on July 17.

During the firefight, sub-inspector Satish Patil sustained a gunshot wound to his left shoulder.

He was airlifted to Gadchiroli from the Thana Band area in Kanker around 4 PM.

"Police have recovered 12 bodies of Maoists from the spot along with seven firearms, including three AK-47s, two INSAS rifles, a carbine, and an SLR," said Gadchiroli Superintendent of Police, Nilotpal, in a statement to PTI.

"The injured include a sub-inspector from the C-60 force and one jawan. They are in stable condition, having been evacuated from the scene and transferred to Nagpur for further treatment," added the SP.

Among the deceased Maoists, one has been identified as DVCM Laxman Atram, also known as Vishal Atram, who was in charge of the Tipagad Dalam.

In response to the successful operation, Maharashtra Home Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced a reward of ₹ 51 lakh for the C-60 commando teams and the Gadchiroli Police, as confirmed by SP Nilotpal.

The search operation continues in the area as authorities ensure there are no remaining threats.