Bhubaneswar/Kandhamal: In a major breakthrough in anti-Maoist operations, a wanted Maoist, identified as Shukru, surrendered before police in Kandhamal district.

According to officials, Shukru, who was highly active in the region, laid down arms along with an AK-47 rifle. His surrender is being seen as a significant success for security forces engaged in tackling Left Wing Extremism in the state.

Notably, Shukru carried a bounty of ₹55 lakh on his head.

Along with him, four other Maoists also surrendered before Kandhamal police, further boosting ongoing efforts to curb extremist activities.

Police sources said Shukru had been operating a new outfit under the name “Eighth Company,” through which he continued Maoist activities in the region.

The Odisha Police had been repeatedly appealing to Maoists to surrender and join the mainstream, offering rehabilitation and support.

The development comes amid intensified nationwide efforts to eliminate Maoist presence, with authorities working towards a target of making the country Maoist-free by March 31.

A day earlier, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi informed the Assembly that only 15 Maoists are currently active in the state.

In a written reply in the House, the Chief Minister said Maoist presence is now limited to a few border areas spanning Kandhamal, Kalahandi, and Rayagada districts. He added 96 Maoists and militia members have surrendered in Odisha over the past two years.