Latehar News: JJMP Extremists Set Fire to Coal-Laden Vehicles Near Latehar’s Magadh Colliery

Latehar, November 05, 2024: In a significant act of violence, armed extremists associated with the JJMP (Jharkhand Jan Mukti Parishad) set ablaze two coal-laden vehicles on Tuesday evening near Magadh Colliery in the Balumath police station area of Latehar district. The incident occurred around 7:45 PM at Golitar village, a few kilometers from the colliery.

According to incident details, the vehicles, a truck with registration number Jh02Ak/1599 and a trailer bearing number Up71BT/0537 were transporting coal from the Magadh Colliery, operated by Central Coalfields Limited (CCL), toward Balumath. As they neared the Golitar intersection, they were forcibly stopped by 5-6 uniformed, armed JJMP extremists. The militants, wielding firearms, threatened the drivers and proceeded to douse the vehicles with petrol before setting them on fire. Both vehicles were completely destroyed.

A handwritten pamphlet left at the scene by the extremists claimed responsibility for the act, signaling a continued presence and resistance of the JJMP in the region. The group has been active in using violence and intimidation, primarily targeting industrial operations as a protest against perceived injustices.

Local police, along with security forces, promptly arrived at the scene following the incident. A police investigation has been launched to track down the individuals responsible, and efforts are underway to prevent further disruption in the area. Police officials have intensified surveillance across Latehar to deter further extremist actions.

This attack underscores ongoing security challenges in Jharkhand’s coal belt, particularly for transportation and mining operations in districts like Latehar. Authorities are urging coal operators and logistics companies to reinforce security protocols amidst escalating threats from extremist groups.