Four Personnel Killed in Blast While Handling Maoist Explosive Cache in Chhattisgarh

Four security personnel were killed in a powerful explosion during a demining operation in Chhattisgarh’s Kanker district, with fresh details indicating the blast occurred while handling a concealed Maoist explosive cache during an anti-insurgency mission.

The incident took place on Saturday near Aadnar village along the Kanker–Narayanpur border, where personnel of the District Reserve Guard (DRG) and Bastar Fighters were conducting a demining and area domination operation based on intelligence inputs about hidden Maoist dumps.

While initial reports from several agencies described the explosion as an IED blast planted earlier by Maoists , officials later clarified that the explosion likely originated from a stored dump of explosive material being recovered and neutralised during the operation.

According to updated findings, the team had already located one cache containing electronic equipment before discovering another stash comprising multiple sacks of explosive powder. During handling with the assistance of a Bomb Disposal Squad , the material detonated, possibly due to heat exposure or a chemical reaction , though the exact trigger is yet to be confirmed.

Inspector Sukhram Vatti, who led the team, along with constables Krishna Komra and Sanjay Gadhpale, died on the spot. Another injured constable, Parmanand Komra, succumbed to injuries later during treatment after being evacuated to Raipur.

Officials said the operation was part of a broader effort driven by inputs from surrendered Maoists , which have recently helped security forces uncover multiple hidden caches across Bastar. The incident highlights the continuing risks from residual explosives even after intensified anti-Maoist operations.

The blast is significant as it is the first Maoist-related explosion since the state’s March 31 declaration of being free from armed insurgency , raising concerns about leftover stockpiles in forested zones.

Following the incident, security forces have launched extensive search operations in the surrounding area to detect additional hidden explosives. Authorities are also reviewing standard operating procedures for handling such caches .

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma expressed deep grief over the loss, while tributes were paid to the fallen personnel in the region.