Rolo, CRPF’s four-legged soldier, dies after bee attack during biggest Maoist operation

Bijapur: A two-year-old Belgian Shepherd named Rolo, part of the Central Reserve Police Force’s elite canine unit, was the only casualty suffered by security personnel during a massive anti-Maoist operation in the Korgotalu hills, along the Chhattisgarh–Telangana border.

The female sniffer dog, deployed to detect explosives and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), was killed in action on April 27 after being attacked by a swarm of bees, CRPF officials confirmed. Despite immediate efforts to protect and evacuate her, Rolo succumbed to the stings while en route to medical aid.

Rolo’s fatal encounter occurred during a search operation in the rugged Korgotalu region — a dense, hilly forest area spanning Chhattisgarh’s Bijapur and Telangana’s Mulugu districts. Known for its wild terrain, natural caves, and thick vegetation, the region provides ideal cover for Maoist operatives and is also inhabited by wild animals and insects, including bees.

During the April 27 operation, Rolo’s team was unexpectedly attacked by a swarm of bees. Her handlers attempted to shield her using a polythene sheet, but the insects found their way through, stinging her roughly 200 times. Overwhelmed by pain and irritation, the dog bolted from the protective cover, making her further vulnerable.

Despite swift evacuation and emergency care provided by her handlers, Rolo was declared dead on arrival by CRPF veterinarians.

"Rolo’s contribution was invaluable. She was a soldier in every sense," said a senior CRPF official. In honour of her sacrifice, the CRPF Director General has posthumously awarded her a commendation medal.

Rolo had joined anti-Naxal duties in Chhattisgarh in April 2024 after completing rigorous training at the CRPF's canine training academy in Taralu, near Bengaluru. She was an integral part of the bomb detection squad during the 21-day offensive that ended on 11 May.

The joint operation, led by the CRPF and Chhattisgarh Police, was one of the largest coordinated actions against Maoist insurgents to date. Authorities reported that 31 Maoists were killed, delivering what they described as a significant blow to the Naxal cadre. Eighteen troopers were injured in the effort, with some sustaining severe blast wounds that led to amputations.

(With inputs from PTI)