PLFI Supremo Martin Kerketta Killed in Jharkhand Encounter

A high-ranking member of the banned Maoist splinter group PLFI has been killed during a gunfight with security forces in Jharkhand's Gumla district. The firefight unfolded on Tuesday night, resulting in the death of Martin Kerketta, who headed the People's Liberation Front of India. Kerketta, who carried a bounty of Rs 15 lakh on his head, was wanted in numerous criminal cases.

The confrontation erupted around 9:30 pm as security personnel conducted a search operation in the Changabadi Upartoli area. Upon the arrival of the forces, Maoists opened fire, leading to a retaliatory action by the authorities. Gumla Superintendent of Police, Haris Bin Zaman, confirmed the seizure of a pistol from Kerketta's possession.

Despite the successful operation, three other Maoists managed to escape under cover of darkness. Kerketta's criminal activities spanned across several districts, making him a key figure in 72 registered cases. Security forces had been tipped off about Maoist presence, prompting the decisive search mission.

(With inputs from agencies.)