In Gaya district of Bihar, security forces successfully foiled a major Naxal conspiracy in time. During a search operation conducted in the dense forests of the Lutua police station area, the CRPF recovered a powerful 5-kilogram pressure-based IED, which was later safely defused by the bomb disposal squad. This action averted a potentially major tragedy.
Search operation launched based on intelligence input
According to sources, CRPF’s 215th Battalion received intelligence inputs regarding Naxal activities. Following this, a joint search operation was launched in the hilly and forested regions of Camp Nagobar, Gularia Tari, and Singhwa.
During the operation, the presence of an explosive device buried underground was detected using modern detection equipment (DSMD). Acting with caution, the personnel excavated the area and recovered a 5-kg pressure IED.
Explosive was planted underground
Security officials stated that the recovered IED was based on a pressure mechanism, designed to detonate when a person or vehicle passed over it. It is believed that the device was planted underground with the intention of targeting security forces.
IED safely defused by bomb disposal squad
The recovered IED was neutralized on the spot by the bomb disposal squad using controlled techniques. Officials said the explosive was highly powerful and could have caused significant loss of life and property if it had detonated.
Questions raised over Naxal strategy
This incident once again highlights the changing tactics of Naxals. In recent years, incidents of IED-based attacks have increased in Naxal-affected areas like Gaya and surrounding regions, rather than direct encounters.
Security agencies believe that Naxals are increasingly attempting to target security forces through hidden explosive devices.
Statement from CRPF
The Commandant of CRPF’s 215th Battalion said that timely action prevented a major incident. He added that search operations in the area have been intensified and monitoring of suspected Naxal activities is ongoing.
Heightened security in the region
Following the incident, additional vigilance has been enforced across the region. Security forces are trying to trace the network behind planting the IED and identify those involved.
Continuous operations in Naxal-affected areas
It is worth noting that security forces are continuously conducting operations in Naxal-affected regions including Gaya, which has led to a decline in extremist activities. However, such incidents still remain a challenge.
