At least 15 were killed in an IED explosion in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra on Wednesday. It took place, after Maoists set fire to around 30 vehicles in the region.
Speaking to the media, DIG Ankush Shinde said, “The Quick Response Team (QRT) were going to Purada village in a private vehicle. The blast occurred at around 12.30 pm near a nullah called Lendari in which 15 of our jawans have become martyrs.”
Reportedly, there was an exchange of fire between Maoists and security personnel, at the blast site in Gadchiroli.
Responding to the issue, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said, “Strongly condemn the despicable attack on our security personnel in Gadchiroli, Maharashtra. I salute all the brave personnel. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten. My thoughts and solidarity are with the bereaved families. The perpetrators of such violence will not be spared.”
In Kurkheda tahsil of Gadchiroli district, Maoists set fire to the vehicles deployed for road work, in the late hours of last night.
Additional Superintendent of Police Hari Balaji said, “there are varying reports about the number of Naxals involved in the act. But information is that a group comprising anything between 40 to 100 Naxals had come to the Dadapur village and set fire to 29 vehicles that included a tar plant, trailer, and tippers.”