16 Maoists Surrender in Jharkhand; Six Rewarded Rebels worth Rs 39 Lakh among Them

RANCHI: Sixteen Maoists, including six carrying a combined bounty of Rs 39 lakh, surrendered before the Jharkhand Police on Tuesday, marking a significant success in the state’s anti-insurgency efforts. Police said the surrender reflects the effectiveness of ongoing operations and rehabilitation initiatives aimed at encouraging Maoists to join the mainstream.

Among those who laid down arms was Santosh Mahto alias Basudev Da alias Dilip, a senior Maoist leader wanted in 128 criminal cases and carrying a reward of Rs 15 lakh.

A senior police officer said the six surrendered Maoists together had rewards worth Rs 39 lakh. The group also included five women cadres, a regional committee member and a zonal committee member.