Malkangiri: A huge cache of arms and ammunition was seized after an extensive composite anti-Maoist operation in ‘Swabhiman Anchal’, which was previously known as cut-off areas, in Malkangiri district by the security forces.
The operation was jointly launched by the Odisha Police, BSF, CoBRA and Andhra Police in Malkangiri district.
The teams busted various hideouts and dumps in ‘Swabhiman Anchal’ and adjoining locality.
It was one of the biggest counter-LWE operations in the area. This operation provided security coverage for road construction in the areas which was opposed by the Maoists, an official statement said.
Connectivity in the areas brings development which in turn changes the perception of the people of the area towards mainstreaming with the society, it added.
The arms and ammunitions recovered during operation include INSAAS light machine gun (LMG), INSAAS rifles, Carbine Sten guns, SLR rifle, .303 rifle, pistol, 5.56mm Ammunition, 7.62 Ammunition, 9mm Ammunition, LMG magazines, INSAS magazines, SLR magazines, Carbine magazines, .303 magazine, VHF set cum scanner, Optical sight, Tiffin bomb along with explosive, Gun powder explosive, Cordex wire, Flexi wire, Magazine pouch, Flashlight, other articles and documents.
An exchange of fire between a team comprising of SOG and DVF commandos of Odisha Police and Maoists had taken place at Goiguda village January 15, 2020. On the basis of information received from Maoists documents and electronic devices seized post exchange of fire, intense search, and area domination exercises were launched that led to uncovering of the major Maoist hideouts and dumps, the statement added.