Security forces neutralised eight Maoists, including a high-profile commander with a Rs 1 crore bounty, during a fierce jungle confrontation in Jharkhand’s West Singhbhum district on Thursday, authorities confirmed.

The deadly skirmish erupted in the dense Kumdi area of Saranda forest, situated within the jurisdiction of the Kiriburu police station.

"At least eight Maoists were killed. A search operation is underway after the gunfight stopped. The final number of casualties will be provided later," a senior police official stated.

Among the deceased was a primary target of the regional counterinsurgency efforts. "Patiram Majhi alias Anal Da has been killed in the operation," the officer added.

While the immediate exchange of fire has concluded, tactical teams remain on-site to secure the perimeter and conduct a secondary sweep of the rugged terrain.

With inputs from PTI