Daijiworld Media Network - Maredumilli

Maredumilli, Nov 19: In a major breakthrough for Andhra Pradesh’s anti-Maoist operations, seven Maoists were killed on Wednesday during an intense exchange of fire with security forces in the forested Maredumilli region. This marks the second major blow to Maoist cadres within 24 hours, following Tuesday’s high-profile encounter that claimed the life of top PLGA Battalion-1 commander Madvi Hidma.

At a press briefing, AP Intelligence ADG Mahesh Chandra Laddha confirmed the fatalities.

“In continuation of Tuesday’s operation, seven Maoists have died until now, according to information received from the field,” he stated.

Security personnel have recovered seven bodies, including those of three women. The elite Greyhounds unit continues combing operations in the dense, hilly terrain of Alluri Sitaramaraju (ASR) district, known for heavy Maoist movement.

Officials said eight weapons, including two AK-47 rifles, were seized from the encounter zone, dealing a further blow to Maoist firepower.

Among the slain rebels was Meturi (Metturu) Jog Rao, alias Shankar, a high-ranking operative:

• Central Committee Member

• Key figure of the Andhra–Odisha Border Special Zonal Committee (AOBSZC)

• In charge of AOB operations

• An expert in technical operations, arms manufacturing, and communication systems

Shankar, a native of Srikakulam, was one of the most wanted Maoist strategists in the region.

Preliminary reports identify the others killed as:

• Sita alias Jyothi – Divisional Committee Member (AOBSZC)

• Five Area Committee Members (ACMs) linked to the AOBSZC

Tuesday’s operation, which neutralised six Maoists including Hidma, followed by Wednesday’s encounter, is being described as one of the biggest coordinated offensives against the CPI (Maoist) in Andhra-Odisha border areas in recent years.

With back-to-back setbacks for the insurgents, security agencies believe Maoist operational strength in the region has been significantly dented.