Gadchiroli: In a cowardly attack, Naxals struck at a police vehicle martyring 16 personnel of Gadchiroli C-60 force. The communist terror outfit triggered an IED to execute the attack and blew up the police vehicle completely. Pictures from the scene is tragic with the vehicle completely destroyed in the explosion.
The 16 killed belonged to the Quick Response Team (QRT) of the Gadchiroli police. They were on their way to investigate an earlier incident where vehicles belonging to a road construction contractor was burned by Maoists.
Reports suggest that heave exchange of fire is taking place between the police and the Naxals. The area is infested with around 200 Maoists at the moment.
The attack comes on a day when Maharashtra is celebrating the founder’s day. The timing of the attack also has another significance. Last year around 40 Naxals were gunned down by security forces and the communist terror outfit was observing a one week protest marking the attack.
Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has strongly condemned the attack and 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 & solidarity are with the bereaved families. The perpetrators of such violence will not be spared.”
Home Minister Rajnath Singh termed the attack as an act of cowardice and said that he was in constant contact with Maharashtra Chief Minister Fadnavis and have promised all assistance needed by the state government.
A senior police officer heading anti-naxal operations has said that reinforcement have been sent to the area and air support will follow shortly.
