Security forces engage in encounter with Maoists in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum; no casualty reported

An encounter took place between security forces and Maoists in a forest in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district on Tuesday morning (May 19, 2026), a senior police officer said.

No casualty was reported in the incident that took place in Porahat forest near Kedabir village in Sonua police station area, Superintendent of Police Amit Renu said.

The incident took place when security personnel were conducting a routine combing operation.

Upon spotting the approaching security personnel, the Maoists opened fire on them and they retaliated, leading to a brief encounter following which the Naxals retreated deeper into the forest.

The SP said that a few Maoists, including their top leader Misir Besra, who carries a bounty of ₹1 crore on his head, are still active in the district.

He said a search operation was under way.