Phulbani: In a sign of intense internal tussle among left wing extremists (LWEs) in Odisha, a senior Maoist leader was suspected to have been killed by a fellow rebel in Kandhamal district of the state.
Police sources said the body, suspected to be that of top Maoist leader Anwesh, has been recovered from Pakari reserve forest area under the jurisdiction of Daringbadi police station of Kandhamal district on Wednesday. Anwesh was allegedly killed by his fellow Maoists for planning to surrender before the police.
Area commander of the KKBN group of the banned outfit, Anwesh had reportedly planned to surrender with 12 of his associates. However, his plan was thwarted by most wanted Maoist Sukru and his colleagues.
Sources said a fight broke out between Sukru and Anwesh. It was claimed that Anwesh was killed and his body buried in the forest. Security forces, led by Baliguda SDPO Shubham Bhosale, recovered Anwesh’s body and sent it for forensic analysis. Notably, the Odisha government had announced a Rs 22 lakh reward for Anwesh’s surrender.
Urging Maoists to surrender, Kandhamal SP Harisha BC said the government’s rehabilitation policy will benefit them significantly.
Officials said this incident highlights the internal conflicts within Maoist groups and the ongoing efforts of security forces to eliminate extremism in the state.
