A search operation by the Palamu Police in Jharkhand led to a deadly encounter with Naxals. The operation was initiated based on intelligence regarding Shashikant Ganjhu, a TSPC commander with a bounty of 10 lakhs. The police reached the village of Kadel, where the commander was present to celebrate the Karma festival.
As the police surrounded the house, a fierce firefight ensued, resulting in the martyrdom of two police officers, Sunil Ram and Santan Mehta. Another officer, Rohit Kumar, sustained injuries and is receiving medical care. The incident has led to a widespread search operation and a security lockdown in the area. This follows a prior incident on April 21, 2025 in Bokaro district where security forces eliminated eight Naxals, including a Central Committee member with a reward of 1 crore.