Gaya: In a major breakthrough for security forces, hardcore Maoist sub-zonal commander Akhilesh Singh Bhokta alias Patarki, carrying a reward of ₹3 lakh, surrendered before Gaya SSP Anand Kumar on Friday.
Bhokta, a resident of Kachnar village under Chhakarbandha police station, was wanted in over 18 Naxal cases across Gaya and Aurangabad districts. He laid down arms — including a semi-automatic rifle — citing increased pressure from security camp establishments in Chhakarbandha interiors.
Following his surrender, police recovered 60 IEDs — each weighing 1 kg — based on information he provided. These explosives were found buried in the forest area of Kachnar and were neutralized on the spot by joint teams of CRPF, SSB, STF, and BSP.
SSP Anand Kumar confirmed in a press briefing that Bhokta will receive full benefits under the government’s surrender and rehabilitation policy, and further legal procedures are underway.
Security agencies had been conducting intensive raids for over a decade to capture the elusive Naxal leader, who was considered a significant threat in the region.
