Four soldiers from the 201st COBRA Battalion lost their lives in a tragic accident when their car collided with a stationary truck on the Khapri bypass in Chhattisgarh’s Dhamtari district. The soldiers, who were dedicated to combating Naxalism in the region, were returning from Jagdalpur when their car crashed into the parked truck, resulting in a catastrophic impact that trapped them inside. Two soldiers died on the spot, while two others succumbed to their injuries en route to medical care.
One soldier sustained severe injuries and is currently in critical condition at a local hospital. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, with initial indications pointing to excessive speed as a key factor. The bodies of the deceased soldiers have been sent for post-mortem examinations, and a thorough probe is ongoing to determine if other factors like road conditions or mechanical failure played a role in the accident.
State Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and State Home Minister Vijay Sharma expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the brave soldiers, offering their heartfelt tributes and condolences to the bereaved families. The COBRA Battalion, a unit of the Central Reserve Police Force known for its operations in Maoist-affected areas, faces risks not only in combat but also during routine travel, highlighting the dangers encountered by security forces off the battlefield.
