‘Maoist Shadow’: BSF Jawans Recover & Defuse 1.5Kg IED In Odisha’s Malkangiri

Bhubaneswar: The BSF jawans averted a potential threat by recovering an improvised explosive device (IED) near Charkondal canal bridge under Kalimela police limits in Odisha’s Malkangiri district on Thursday.

The IED was wrapped in plastic and buried near a tree close to the bridge.

“Based on specific intelligence, BSF troops from the Company Operating Base Bodigetta, 142 Bn BSF, conducted a special operation in the vicinity of Gomphakonda Irrigation Canal on the foothills of the Bejangiwada Reserve Forest. During a thorough search of the target area, the team discovered an improvised explosive device (IED) wrapped in plastic and buried near a twin tree close to the Charkondal canal bridge, along Gomphakonda Irrigation Canal near Bodigetta village, within the jurisdiction of Kalimela police limits,” an official release said.

A bomb disposal squad later safely neutralised the IED, weighing about 1.5 kg, recovered along with an electric detonator and wire.

The release further stated that this region is known to be a Maoist stronghold for over a decade, and has been used by cadres and their sympathisers for shelter and sustenance. These groups have in past planted IEDs, stored bomb-making materials, and concealed arms in isolated locations to target security forces and police personnel operating in the region.

“The BSF is actively conducting operations in Malkangiri district, maintaining a strong presence and bolstering the sense of security among local residents. The recovery of the IED will demoralize Maoist sympathisers still active in the area, while also encouraging the security forces to intensify their efforts. Further combing and search operations are underway in the region,” it added.