Sundargarh: Security forces recovered a concealed Maoist dump containing arms, ammunition, explosives and communication equipment from Silkuta Reserve Forest under K Balang police station limits on Sunday, Odisha Police said.

According to a press release issued by Rourkela Police, the recovery was made on August 23 based on information obtained during the interrogation of surrendered Naxals. Following the input, a joint team of the DVF and BDDS launched a search and area domination operation in the forest.

During the operation, the team detected the concealed dump and recovered a CM 9mm 1A1 carbine, an IED container, 15 detonators, two magazines and 20 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

The security personnel also recovered a Motorola walkie-talkie, a walkie-talkie frequency unit, a digital multimeter, a charger battery, a sling and two pouches, according to the police.

The recovered items were secured and taken into possession as per procedure. Police said the recovery was a significant step towards dismantling Maoist networks and preventing access to arms, explosives and other logistical resources.

The police release also noted that Odisha was declared Naxal-free on March 31, 2026. It said the latest recovery reflected the continued efforts of security forces to maintain peace, security and stability in areas previously affected by Maoist activities.