Rayagada: A large cache of explosives and materials used by Maoists has been seized by security personnel in Odisha’s Rayagada district, indicating a significant setback to insurgent activities in the region, a senior police officer said on Tuesday.Addressing a press conference, Rayagada Superintendent of Police Swathy S. Kumar said the recoveries were made by the District Volunteer Force (DVF) from multiple forest locations, including areas near Pajigarega village under Muniguda and Ambadala police station limits along the Rayagada-Kandhamal border, as well as forests near Ambrkhola and Patrani villages.The seizures come in the wake of the surrender of 15 Maoists in February, including a cadre identified as Nikhil Indu. Acting on intelligence inputs following the surrenders, security forces launched combing operations that led to the recovery of the hidden materials.According to the police, the seized items include 415 detonators, eight bundles of cordex, 29 kg of high explosives packed in three bags, two single-shot guns, one BGL rifle, a laptop with charger, electric wires, red cloth, and plastic containers.Highlighting the improving security situation, the SP said there is currently no active Maoist presence in Rayagada district. She added that information shared with the Additional Director General (Naxal) indicates only a handful of Maoists remain in the broader region.However, Kumar cautioned that Maoist activity continues in the bordering areas of Kandhamal and Ganjam districts. She also referred to the situation involving Sarvesh Majhi alias Mangur from Kashipur block, noting that vigilance remains necessary in the adjoining forested belts.Security forces are continuing intensified operations in the region to eliminate residual insurgent threats and prevent regrouping attempts by Maoist cadres, officials said
