In a significant development in anti-Maoist operations, six Maoists, including top commander Madvi Hidma, were killed in a pre-dawn encounter in the Maredumilli forests near the Andhra-Chhattisgarh-Odisha tri-junction in Alluri Sita Ramaraju District, Andhra Pradesh.
Andhra Pradesh Director General of Police, Harish Kumar Gupta, said the encounter took place following credible intelligence about the group’s movement. He added that no security personnel were injured during the operation.
Inspector General Sundarraj P of the Bastar Range described Hidma’s death as a decisive breakthrough in counter-insurgency efforts. Weapons, including AK-47 rifles and explosives, were recovered from the encounter site. Security forces have intensified search operations in Maredumilli, Vijayawada, NTR, and Kakinada districts.
In Vijayawada, police arrested 27 suspected Maoists, including women, who were hiding in the city under pressure from ongoing anti-Maoist operations. The arrested individuals are under interrogation, and security has been strengthened in the area.
Officials said these actions form part of the Union Government’s Mission 2026 to dismantle remaining Maoist strongholds. Authorities urged public vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to ensure safety and stability in both tribal and urban areas.
