India, March 24 -- 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 Rs55 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 regio...