Raipur: At least ten policemen and one civilian have been killed in a blast carried out by Maoists in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada on Wednesday, according to official sources quoted by PTI.
The explosives attack took place on a vehicle carrying the security personnel from the District Reserve Guard (DRG) near Aranpur in the Dantewada district. Senior police officials have rushed to the spot after the incident, while combing operation in the area was stepped up.
DRG is a special force of the Chhattisgarh police that comprises mostly local tribals who have been trained to combat Maoists. Sources said the policemen were returning from an anti-Maoist operation that was launched after intelligence inputs.
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel condoled the deaths, and said the state’s fight against Naxals was in the final stages. “Naxals will not be spared and we will end Naxalism,” he added.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah reportedly spoke to Baghel following the incident and took stock of the situation.
Terming the attack as a cowardly attack on police, Shah said he has spoken to Chhattisgarh’s Chief Minister and assured all possible assistance to the state government. He extended condolences to the bereaved family members of the martyred Jawans.
