08 Jun 2018 | 01:51 AM UTC
India: Deadly Maoist attack in Jharkhand June 7 /update 1
Suspected Maoist insurgents kill at least two people during clashes with security forces in Jharkhand June 7
Event
Deadly clashes between Maoist insurgents and security forces broke out in Jharkhand state on Thursday, June 7. According to local sources, one police officer and one CoBRA member (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) were killed in the fighting which took place in the Dalbhaga-Arki area of Saraikela-Kharsawan district. Additional attacks by Maoist insurgents are possible in area in the coming weeks.
Context
Violent Maoist insurgents (Naxalites) have been active for several decades in rural areas of the states of Chhattisgarh, Jharkand, Odisha, Bihar, and West Bengal, as well as in the border region around Andra Pradesh. For this reason, restrictions on the movement of foreign tourists in rural areas have been put in place by local authorities. On May 24, an IED blast killed two soldiers in Puswada (Sukma district). On May 20, seven policemen were killed by an IED near the village of Cholnar, in the Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh state.
Advice
Individuals in Jharkhand state are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities. Remain vigilant for potential militant activity, particularly if planning on traveling to rural areas of the abovementioned states.
